Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
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 grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup chopped spinach (optional)

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 11 reviews

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s simply irresistible, you have to try this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Each bite is layered with flavor: juicy, golden chicken under a blanket of crispy Parmesan and panko, all smothered in a dreamy sauce packed with garlic, Italian herbs, and just the right touch of richness. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a special gathering, this dish wins hearts and taste buds, and the best part—it comes together in under 30 minutes!

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce comes from humble ingredients that work hard for big flavor and amazing textures. You probably have most of these in your kitchen, and each one plays a unique part in the final result.

Chicken Breasts: Opt for small to medium breasts for quicker, juicier results, or halve larger pieces to keep things even.
Salt and Pepper: A quick seasoning brings out the natural flavors in the chicken and the coating.
Olive Oil: Helps your chicken get that appetizing, golden sear without sticking to the pan.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: The key to a nutty, salty crust; make sure it’s finely grated for the crispiest coating and a sauce full of flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add extra crunch to the outside of your chicken for that signature, crave-worthy texture.
Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic infuses the creamy sauce with a depth of robust, aromatic flavor.
Light Cream or Heavy Cream: The creamy base that brings richness and silkiness to the sauce—choose your preferred level of indulgence.
Italian Seasoning or Oregano: Provides an herby, savory lift in the sauce that marries beautifully with Parmesan and garlic.
Chopped Spinach (optional): Adds color, nutrition, and a pop of freshness—but totally your call!

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry, then sprinkle both sides generously with salt and pepper. This not only seasons the chicken itself but also helps the coating stick and balances all the delicious richness ahead.

Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Coating

In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs. Mix them together with a fork—every piece of chicken should be well-covered so your Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce gets its signature crunch.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Press each seasoned chicken breast into your Parmesan-panko mixture, making sure every inch is coated. Flip and press once more—give those crumbs a chance to stick and form a sturdy, crispy crust.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s shimmering but not smoking, gently add the chicken. Sear on each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, until the crust is golden and crisp but not burned. Resist the urge to move the chicken too soon—this helps the crust set perfectly!

Step 5: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

With the chicken resting, lower the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic directly to the same skillet (no need to clean it—you want those tasty browned bits!). Sauté for just about a minute until fragrant, then pour in your cream and sprinkle the Italian seasoning or oregano. Stir to combine and scrape up all the delicious bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 6: Add Spinach and More Parmesan

If you’re using spinach, now’s the time to stir it in—let it wilt gently in the warm cream. Then, add the extra Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is melted and the sauce begins to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Simmer Everything Together

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy garlic sauce. Cover the pan and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until a thermometer in the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). The flavors mingle and the chicken soaks up all that garlicky, cheesy goodness.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the chicken to plates and give each piece a generous spoonful of the creamy garlic sauce. Serve hot, and get ready for a chorus of “wow” at your table. This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce delivers every time!

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

A final flourish really takes this dish over the top. Try a handful of freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of green, or a dusting of extra grated Parmesan for added richness. A little cracked black pepper and a few lemon wedges on the side brighten things up beautifully.

Side Dishes

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is ultra-comforting, so pairing it with a light, crisp salad or simple garlic green beans adds freshness. For something heartier, nestle the chicken alongside creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a spoonful of fluffy rice—the sauce just begs to be mopped up!

Creative Ways to Present

If you love a little drama (in your food, of course!), try slicing your chicken and fanning it over the sauce on a platter. Or serve atop a bed of herby couscous for a Mediterranean touch. Individual cast iron skillets look rustic and inviting, especially if you’re serving guests or want to feel a little fancy at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store chicken and sauce together in an airtight container—the flavors meld and get even better overnight!

Freezing

If you want to freeze, let the chicken and sauce cool completely, then wrap the chicken individually and freeze the sauce in a separate container. This makes it easy to reheat only what you need without losing that crispy texture.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce velvety. You can also re-crisp the chicken briefly in a skillet over medium heat before spooning the reheated sauce on top.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and are often even juicier. You may need to adjust cooking times slightly, as thighs can be a bit thicker than breasts.

Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Yes—swap the panko breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free alternative. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you won’t miss out on any of the flavor or crunch!

What cream should I use for the sauce?

Either light cream or heavy cream will produce a luscious sauce. Heavy cream makes it extra rich, while light cream gives a slightly lighter finish. Both taste amazing in Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce!

Can I prep this dish in advance?

You can coat the chicken and prep all ingredients earlier in the day, then cook everything right before serving. This makes dinner fast, fresh, and hassle-free—perfect for busy nights or guests.

How can I add more flavor or variety?

Try mixing a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce for gentle heat, or swap in baby kale for the spinach. A squeeze of lemon just before serving can also brighten up all those savory flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that feels special but is secretly easy, Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is your answer. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages and every occasion—give it a try, and let this cheesy, garlicky comfort food become a new favorite at your table!