Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delightfully simple dish that packs a flavorful punch. The crispy, golden chicken is perfectly paired with a rich and creamy garlic sauce that makes every bite enjoyable. It’s an excellent choice for a family dinner or even a cozy gathering with friends. The best part? It takes just a little time to whip up a meal everyone will love.

Why This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Is Great

This dish is wonderful because it brings together easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps. You don’t need any fancy techniques to make this inviting meal. It’s delicious and satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, the whole family will enjoy the blend of crispy chicken and creamy sauce, making it a new favorite for sure.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Making this chicken is quite simple! Start by coating the chicken breasts in a cheesy breadcrumb mixture. Then, give them a quick sear in a skillet to add some golden color before baking. Finally, whip up a creamy garlic sauce in the same pan for added flavor. It’s really that easy!

What You Need

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 cups heavy cream
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

Step-by-Step

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a shallow dish, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
Coat each chicken breast in the mixture, pressing to adhere.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides.
Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
In the same skillet, add butter and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and simmer until thickened.
Serve the chicken with the creamy garlic sauce on top.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This exquisite chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You might enjoy it with fluffy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a lighter touch. Steamed vegetables or garlic bread are also great for soaking up that rich sauce. It’s perfect for a family meal or a simple dinner with friends.

How to Store Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To keep leftovers fresh, store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers. It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap the chicken tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave, making sure the chicken is hot throughout.

Recipe Tips

Make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken for better adherence.
Keep an eye on the chicken while it’s baking to avoid overcooking.
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce if desired.
If the sauce is too thick, just add a little milk to reach your desired consistency.
Don’t skip browning the chicken; it adds great flavor and texture!

Variations & Swaps

For a zesty kick, add lemon juice and zest to the creamy garlic sauce.
Swap chicken for pork chops or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Try different herbs in the breadcrumb mixture, like Italian seasoning or paprika, for added flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coating in advance. Keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just assemble and bake when needed for a quick meal.

Can I freeze leftover chicken?
Absolutely! After it cools, store it in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s wrapped well to avoid freezer burn.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
For the best results, reheat in the oven at a low temperature to maintain the crispiness of the chicken. If you’re short on time, a microwave will also work—just be mindful not to overcook.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Sure! Feel free to swap Parmesan with any cheese you enjoy, like mozzarella or cheddar, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor.

How can I avoid dry chicken?
Make sure to not overcook the chicken. Using a meat thermometer can help; the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.