Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 small–medium chicken breasts (or 2 large, halved); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 3–4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup light cream or heavy cream; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or oregano; ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Let me introduce you to a true weeknight winner: Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce. This dish is golden, impossibly juicy chicken wrapped in a crispy, cheesy crust and crowned with a luscious, silky sauce that’s so packed with flavor, you’ll want to mop up every last drop. It’s the sort of meal that impresses everyone at the table, and yet, it’s shockingly easy to pull together with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this is a recipe you’ll want on repeat.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish is in its short, straightforward ingredient list. Each component truly brings something special — from the irresistible crunch and deep umami of Parmesan to that dreamy cream sauce that ties everything together. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Chicken breasts: Go for small–medium pieces for the juiciest results, or halve large breasts to keep things tender.
Salt and pepper: A generous sprinkle brings out all the natural flavors and ensures every bite is seasoned to perfection.
Olive oil: This helps sear the crust to a beautiful golden brown, giving just the right savory backdrop.
Grated Parmesan cheese (for crust): Don’t skimp here! Provides the iconic salty crust and irresistible crunch.
Panko breadcrumbs: For that extra-light, crispy coating that puts standard breadcrumbs to shame.
Garlic, minced: The star of your sauce, lending depth and a mouthwatering aroma as it cooks.
Light cream or heavy cream: Creates the base of the creamy garlic sauce–either works, but heavy cream adds extra richness.
Italian seasoning or oregano: Brings classic Italian herb flavors, making every bite taste like you’re dining al fresco in Rome.
Parmesan cheese (for sauce): It thickens and flavors the sauce, giving it that robust cheesy finish.
Spinach, chopped (optional): Adds a pop of color, nutrients, and a lovely hint of green—feel free to include it or not.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Season and Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry, which helps the coating stick better. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper. This crucial step lays down a solid flavor foundation and keeps your chicken juicy and tender throughout cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Cheesy Coating

In a shallow dish, combine your grated Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs. Give it a stir so the cheese and breadcrumbs are evenly mixed—this way, every bite of chicken gets a perfectly even, golden coating with the right balance of savory cheese and light crunch.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Press each chicken breast firmly into the Parm–panko mixture, turning to coat both sides. Really give it a little press so the mixture sticks—this is what forms that unforgettable crispy crust. Shake off any excess, then set the chicken aside while you heat your skillet.

Step 4: Sear for Crunch and Color

Heat the olive oil over medium-high in a large skillet—hot enough that a breadcrumb sizzles as soon as it hits the pan. Place each coated chicken breast into the oil and sear for 3–4 minutes per side. Don’t move them around too much; you want that beautiful Parmesan crust to really set before flipping.

Step 5: Lower the Heat and Add Garlic

Turn the heat down to medium-low. Add in the minced garlic right into the pan, letting it sauté briefly until fragrant, about a minute. This infuses the oil and crust with garlicky goodness–just be watchful, as garlic burns quickly!

Step 6: Make That Creamy Garlic Sauce

Pour in your cream and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning or dried oregano. Stir gently, mixing up all those crispy bits at the bottom—that’s major flavor! If you’re going for spinach, toss it in now, letting it wilt down and meld into the sauce beautifully.

Step 7: Finish with Parmesan and Simmer

Stir in your second helping of grated Parmesan cheese. As it melts, your sauce will thicken and turn gloriously rich. Cover the pan and let the chicken cook gently in the sauce for another 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken is perfectly cooked through (an instant-read thermometer should read 165°F).

Step 8: Taste and Serve

Give the sauce a taste—add a pinch more salt or pepper if needed. Plate up your crispy chicken, making sure to spoon over plenty of the creamy garlic sauce. You’ll know by now just how heavenly the kitchen smells!

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

A quick handful of freshly chopped parsley or basil makes everything pop—bright green against the rich sauce. A little lemon zest adds a rush of freshness, and an extra shower of grated Parmesan truly takes things over the top. Don’t forget a crack of black pepper for a finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce just begs for bread or pasta to soak up the sauce! Crusty Italian bread, buttery mashed potatoes, or a pile of angel hair pasta are all stellar options. For a lighter meal, pair with roasted broccoli, green beans, or a crisp arugula salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the chicken and fanning it over a bed of buttery risotto, or layer on top of creamy polenta for a comfort food twist. Serving family style on a big platter, with sauce and garnishes in the middle, invites everyone to dig in and feels celebratory—no matter the night.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let everything cool, then store chicken and sauce together in an airtight container—this helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but for best texture, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately. Place chicken breasts in a freezer bag, sauce in a separate container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for that just-cooked taste and texture.

Reheating

Warm leftover chicken and sauce gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving, which can toughen chicken and split the sauce. A quick stint in a covered skillet keeps everything tender and fresh-tasting.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay extra moist and are wonderfully flavorful. Adjust the cook time slightly, ensuring the internal temperature still reaches 165°F for safety.

Is it okay to substitute regular breadcrumbs for panko?

You can, but panko really gives that signature crunch. If you use regular breadcrumbs, your crust will still be delicious, just a bit less crisp.

How can I make the sauce even more garlicky?

If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two, or even toss in a pinch of garlic powder with the seasoning for deeper flavor.

What can I use if I don’t have cream on hand?

Whole milk mixed with a bit of butter works in a pinch, or try using half and half. The sauce will be a bit lighter, but still creamy enough to feel special.

Can I make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce ahead for a dinner party?

Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce up to a day ahead, then gently reheat in a covered skillet just before serving. This dish holds up well and actually lets the flavors meld together even more overnight.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably comforting about a golden, cheesy crust and a creamy, garlicky sauce—and Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce delivers on every level. The ingredients are simple, the steps are easy, and the results are pure joy. I hope you’ll give it a whirl, share with friends or family, and make it a new favorite in your home. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 12 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Tender and juicy Parmesan crusted chicken breasts served with a luscious creamy garlic sauce. This recipe is a perfect combination of crispy, savory chicken and a rich, flavorful sauce that will have your taste buds singing.

Instructions

Season the chicken breasts: Generously season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Coat the chicken: In a shallow dish, mix together ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese and ½ cup panko breadcrumbs. Press the mixture onto both sides of each chicken breast.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the coated chicken breasts until golden and crispy.
Prepare the sauce: Reduce heat, add minced garlic to the skillet, then pour in cream and Italian seasoning. Add spinach if desired.
Thicken the sauce: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly.
Cook the chicken: Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook through until it reaches 165°F internally.
Finish and serve: Adjust seasoning, plate the chicken, and spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Frying
Cuisine: Italian