This Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a winner with its crunchy coating and creamy garlic sauce. It’s perfect for a family dinner or impressing friends!
Honestly, who can resist crispy chicken smothered in a rich, garlicky sauce? I love serving it over pasta for a tasty meal that feels special without being too tricky to whip up!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you want to use thighs for more flavor or if they are on sale, go for it! Just adjust cooking time as they are thicker.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely flavor and crispiness. If you prefer, Pecorino Romano or even a mix of cheeses can work. Just make sure it’s finely grated for a good coating.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These are key for achieving that crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the crunch won’t be the same. Try crushing some crackers as a fun twist!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less creamy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that wonderful flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but it’s not quite the same punch as fresh!
How Do I Achieve Crispy Chicken Every Time?
Crispy chicken is all about the breading and cooking technique. Here’s how to get that perfect crunch:
- Start by ensuring the chicken is dry. Use paper towels to pat them down; moisture makes it tough for the breading to stick!
- The dredging process is key: coat in flour first, then egg, and finally the breadcrumb mixture. This makes a strong base for the crunch.
- Cook in hot oil but keep the heat at medium; too high can burn the coating before the chicken is cooked through.
- Let the cooked chicken rest on a wire rack instead of a plate. This keeps the bottom crispy!
Crispy Parmesan Chicken With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 35 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. If they are quite thick, consider slicing them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Alternatively, you can gently pound them until they reach an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
2. Make the Breading Mix:
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. This will be the crunchy coating for the chicken.
3. Set Up Dredging Stations:
Prepare three shallow dishes for dredging: one for flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
4. Bread the Chicken:
Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks well.
5. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.
6. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
7. Add the Liquids:
Pour in the chicken broth and the heavy cream, stirring well to combine the ingredients. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer and let cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. If you’d like a bit of spice, add the crushed red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve:
Plate the crispy Parmesan chicken and generously spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a beautiful touch.
9. Optional Serving Suggestion:
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Enjoy your delicious Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Chicken With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain juicy. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the chicken.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time! Simply store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve. You may need to add a splash of cream to bring back the original consistency.
What Can I Serve With This Chicken?
This crispy chicken pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over pasta, alongside mashed potatoes, or with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
