Parmesan crusted chicken with creamy garlic sauce is a crispy, juicy, and flavor-packed dish that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy enough for any weeknight. The golden, cheesy crust locks in moisture, while the rich garlic sauce adds a silky finish that brings the whole dish together. It’s indulgent, comforting, and always a hit at my table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms basic chicken breasts into something truly special. The crispy Parmesan coating adds bold flavor and texture, and the creamy garlic sauce is the kind of thing I want to spoon over everything. It’s a simple recipe, but it makes me feel like I’m eating something fancy without a ton of effort. It pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or even roasted veggies.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Bread crumbs (I use Italian-style or Panko for extra crunch)

• Eggs

• Flour

• Salt and pepper

• Olive oil or butter (for frying)

For the creamy garlic sauce:

• Garlic (freshly minced)

• Butter

• Heavy cream

• Chicken broth

• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated works best)

• Salt and pepper

• Parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps them cook evenly.

2. I season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.

3. I prepare a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of Parmesan and breadcrumbs.

4. I dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip it into the egg, and then coat it generously in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.

5. In a skillet, I heat olive oil or butter over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. I remove and set them aside.

6. For the sauce, I melt butter in the same skillet, then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

7. I pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

8. I stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.

9. I add grated Parmesan and stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

10. I return the chicken to the pan or plate it and spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, so I have it ready in about 40 minutes total.

Variations

• I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.

• For a gluten-free version, I use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

• I love adding mushrooms or spinach to the garlic sauce for extra flavor and texture.

• If I want a lighter sauce, I swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a splash of milk.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce smooth. It also reheats well in the microwave in short bursts. I avoid freezing it because the sauce can separate.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, I bake it at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until golden and cooked through. I spray the tops with a little oil for better browning.

What’s the best Parmesan to use?

I always use freshly grated Parmesan—it melts better and has more flavor than pre-shredded.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. I reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

What sides go well with this dish?

I usually serve it with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. It’s also great with a fresh green salad.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. I just adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Conclusion

Parmesan crusted chicken with creamy garlic sauce is one of those meals that feels fancy but is easy enough to make anytime. I love the crispy coating, the rich and savory sauce, and how it goes with almost any side I’m in the mood for. It’s one of my favorite go-to recipes when I want something hearty, comforting, and sure to impress.