Name: Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce); 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Fresh parsley for garnish

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If you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home, look no further than Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce. This dish features juicy, tender chicken coated in a crispy Parmesan crust, paired with a luscious garlic cream sauce that elevates every bite. Perfect for a cozy dinner, family gathering, or even a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.

Not only is this dish flavorful, but it’s also easy to prepare with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Follow along as we break down the step-by-step process for making this delicious meal!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Crunchy & Juicy: A perfect combination of crispy, golden-brown coating and tender, moist chicken.
Rich Garlic Sauce: The creamy, garlicky sauce adds a decadent touch that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing meal that kids and adults will love.
Versatile: Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Rich Garlic Sauce:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Butterfly the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces.
Set Up Breading Stations: In three separate shallow dishes, place the following:
- Dish 1: Flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Dish 2: Beaten eggs mixed with milk.
- Dish 3: Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip into the egg mixture, and coat with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly to adhere the coating.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Pan-Fry the Chicken: Cook each piece for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce

Melt Butter: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter.
Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Liquids: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well.
Season: Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Melt Parmesan: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine: Return the crispy chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and let it simmer for a minute.

Step 4: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with roasted vegetables.

Check out: Easy Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Fresh Parmesan melts and crisps better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
Don’t Skip the Panko: It creates a crunchier crust than regular breadcrumbs.
Let the Chicken Rest: After frying, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy.
Control the Heat: Cook over medium-high heat to prevent burning while achieving a golden crust.
Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

What to Serve with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Pasta: Toss some spaghetti or fettuccine in the garlic sauce.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add freshness.
Garlic Bread: A side of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the breaded chicken on a greased baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter version.

5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work great, though cooking time may vary slightly.

Conclusion: Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce

Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Rich Garlic Sauce is an indulgent yet simple dish that brings gourmet flavors to your dinner table. Whether served with pasta, mashed potatoes, or veggies, this meal is sure to become a household favorite.

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Happy cooking! 🍽️

Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce