Parmesan Crusted Chicken Garlic

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce combines crispy golden chicken with a rich and velvety garlic sauce that elevates any dinner. The Parmesan crust locks in the juices, creating tender and flavorful bites, while the creamy sauce adds a luxurious finish. This recipe feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple to prepare at home.

I remember making this for a family dinner on a busy weeknight and it instantly became a requested favorite. The creamy sauce really transforms the dish and gives a restaurant-quality feel without the fuss.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless: ensures lean protein with tender meat
• All-purpose flour: helps the Parmesan coating stick for a crunchy crust
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: critical for a nutty, crispy crust opt for good quality imported cheese when possible
• Garlic powder and onion powder: layers flavor into the coating
• Salt and black pepper: basic but essential for seasoning balance
• Butter: creates a rich base for the sauce
• Heavy cream: adds luscious creaminess and depth to the garlic sauce
• Fresh garlic cloves, minced: fresh garlic is key for an aromatic and flavorful sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking. This step is important for even cooking and a crispy crust.

Prepare the Chicken:

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to get an even seasoning. Pat the chicken breasts dry to help the coating cling. Press the chicken into the mixture coating both sides fully. Light pressure helps the crust adhere well.

Bake the Chicken:

Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, checking with a meat thermometer to reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken juicy and tender.

Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about one to two minutes until it smells fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for five to seven minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens to a silky consistency.

Serve:

Place the chicken on plates and generously spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top. This sauce really makes the dish shine, adding a rich and flavorful finishing touch.

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Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the sauce in a separate container to maintain the crust’s crispness. Freeze the chicken for up to two months, but it’s best to prepare the sauce fresh when reheating for optimal texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Almond or coconut flour can replace all-purpose flour for a gluten-free or low-carb option. Chicken thighs offer a juicier alternative but may need a few extra minutes in the oven. Heavy cream can be swapped with half-and-half mixed with a little butter or coconut cream for dairy-free versions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic butter green beans, or steamed broccoli to keep things balanced and fresh. For starch, mashed potatoes or Parmesan risotto soak up the garlic sauce beautifully. A crisp Caesar salad or quinoa salad adds a light and refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.

Cultural Context

Parmesan crust brings a taste of Italian culinary tradition to this dish. Parmesan cheese from Italy’s Parma region has been prized for centuries and is known for its robust flavor and granular texture that crisps beautifully. Creamy garlic sauces are a beloved comfort food staple across many European cuisines, merging richness with simple aromatic ingredients.

Pro Tips

• Always pat your chicken dry before coating to help the crust stick better
• Do not rush toasting the garlic in the sauce—keep the heat medium to avoid bitterness
• Use a meat thermometer to nail perfect juiciness and avoid overcooking

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can chicken thighs be used instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs provide a juicier texture and work well with the Parmesan crust. Adjust baking time slightly to ensure thorough cooking.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure juicy, fully cooked chicken.

→ What’s the best way to prevent the garlic sauce from burning?

Cook garlic over medium heat and stir frequently to bring out its fragrance without turning it bitter.

→ Can I make the creamy garlic sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce a bit longer while stirring to reduce and thicken it to your preferred consistency.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Vegetable sides like roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed broccoli, and starches such as mashed potatoes or parmesan risotto complement this dish nicely.

→ How can the coating be made gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or another gluten-free flour blend without compromising the crispy texture.