Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is the ultimate comfort food dinner that combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a rich, velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce. This restaurant-quality dish is surprisingly easy to make at home using simple pantry staples like breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, butter, and cream.
If you’re looking for a flavorful weeknight dinner that feels elegant enough for guests, this crispy Parmesan chicken recipe delivers every time. The crunchy crust locks in juicy tenderness, while the creamy garlic sauce adds luxurious depth and richness.
Whether served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted vegetables, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken is:
- Crispy on the outside
- Tender and juicy on the inside
- Rich and flavorful
- Ready in about 35 minutes
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
It offers the perfect balance of textures and flavors—crunchy coating meets silky sauce.
Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Here’s everything you need to create this irresistible dish.
For the Chicken
- 4 thin chicken cutlets
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan (for sauce)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce (Step-by-Step)
This crispy chicken with garlic cream sauce comes together in simple stages.
Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow bowls:
- Flour – Season with salt and pepper.
- Eggs – Beat until smooth.
- Breadcrumbs + ½ cup Parmesan – Mix thoroughly.
This classic breading method ensures a thick, crispy coating.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken Cutlets
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
- Dredge each cutlet in flour.
- Dip into beaten eggs.
- Press into breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
Make sure the coating sticks evenly on both sides.
Pro Tip: Let breaded chicken rest for 5 minutes before cooking to help the coating adhere better.
Step 3: Pan-Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook chicken for:
- 3–4 minutes per side
- Until golden brown and cooked through
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Transfer chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
Making the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This sauce elevates the dish to restaurant-level quality.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet:
- Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Add minced garlic.
- Cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
Avoid browning the garlic to prevent bitterness.
Step 5: Deglaze with Chicken Broth
Pour in chicken broth.
- Scrape up browned bits from the pan.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
These browned bits add incredible flavor.
Step 6: Add Cream and Parmesan
Stir in:
- Heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
Simmer gently for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Combine and Garnish
Return chicken to the skillet.
- Spoon sauce over the top.
- Simmer 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
Serve immediately.
What Makes This the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
1. Perfect Crunch Factor
The combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan creates:
- Extra crispiness
- Nutty flavor
- Beautiful golden color
2. Balanced Creamy Garlic Sauce
The sauce is:
- Rich but not overwhelming
- Creamy yet smooth
- Garlicky without being overpowering
3. Quick Yet Impressive
Despite its gourmet appearance, this dish is simple enough for beginners.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Parmesan Chicken
✔ Use Thin Cutlets
Thin chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
✔ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Cook in batches if necessary to maintain crispness.
✔ Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
✔ Control the Heat
Medium heat ensures the crust browns without burning.
Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This creamy garlic chicken pairs beautifully with:
Starches
- Mashed potatoes
- Garlic butter pasta
- Creamy risotto
- Rice pilaf
Vegetables
- Roasted asparagus
- Steamed broccoli
- Sautéed spinach
- Green beans
Bread
- Crusty Italian bread
- Garlic bread
Variations and Customizations
Make It Spicy
Add:
- Red pepper flakes
- Cayenne pepper
Make It Lighter
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Bake instead of pan-fry.
Add Lemon Flavor
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce beautifully.
Turn It into a Casserole
Place chicken in a baking dishes, pour sauce over, and bake 10 minutes for extra tenderness.
Can You Bake Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Yes! For a baked version:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place breaded chicken on a lined baking sheet.
- Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake 18–20 minutes until golden.
You can still prepare the creamy garlic sauce separately.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration
- Store in airtight container.
- Keeps for up to 3 days.
Reheating
- Oven: 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently in sauce.
- Avoid microwaving too long to preserve crispness.
Nutritional Overview
While indulgent, this dish also offers benefits:
Chicken
- High-quality protein
- Supports muscle health
Garlic
- Antioxidant properties
- Supports immune function
Parmesan
- Source of calcium
- Adds rich flavor with minimal quantity
Moderation is key due to cream content.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Skipping the Flour Layer
Flour helps the egg adhere properly.
❌ Burning the Garlic
Cook just until fragrant.
❌ Overcooking the Chicken
Thin cutlets cook quickly—monitor carefully.
❌ Using Low Heat for Frying
Too low heat leads to soggy crust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How do you keep Parmesan crusted chicken crispy with sauce?
Serve sauce underneath or spoon lightly over the top just before serving to maintain crisp texture.
2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of cutlets?
Yes. Slice chicken breasts horizontally into thin cutlets for even cooking.
3. What can I substitute for heavy cream in garlic sauce?
Half-and-half or evaporated milk can be used, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.
4. Can Parmesan crusted chicken be made ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken ahead and refrigerate for a few hours before cooking.
5. Is Parmesan crusted chicken with creamy garlic sauce keto-friendly?
It can be modified by replacing breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
6. What type of breadcrumbs work best?
Panko breadcrumbs create a crispier texture, while regular breadcrumbs provide a finer coating.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Dinner Rotation
Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is:
- Elegant yet simple
- Comforting yet impressive
- Rich yet balanced
- Easy yet gourmet
It’s a dish that works for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.
Final Thoughts: Crispy, Creamy, and Completely Irresistible
If you’re craving a meal that combines crispy texture with rich, velvety flavor, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is exactly what you need. From the golden crust to the luxurious garlic Parmesan cream sauce, every bite delivers comfort and sophistication.
Ready to elevate your dinner game?
–Try this recipe tonight, serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
