This Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a real treat! With a crunchy coating of parmesan and spices, it’s baked to golden perfection. And let’s not forget that creamy garlic sauce—yum!
I love serving this with some pasta or a simple salad. It feels fancy but is super easy! Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that makes the kitchen smell amazing? 🍗🧄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they cook evenly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets can be substituted.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful salty flavor and helps create that crispy coating. If you’re vegan, nutritional yeast can mimic that cheesy flavor in the breadcrumbs.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These light and crispy breadcrumbs are perfect for achieving a crunchy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes work well too.
Heavy Cream: For the sauce, heavy cream makes it rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or a non-dairy milk with a thickener can be used, although the texture may vary.
What’s the Best Way to Coat Chicken for Crispiness?
Coating chicken properly ensures that you get that perfect crispy layer. Follow these steps for success:
- Start by patting the chicken dry. Moisture can make it hard for the coating to stick.
- Dip the chicken in flour first. This creates a dry surface for the egg to adhere to.
- After the egg wash, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture firmly to make sure it clings well.
- Let the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before cooking. This helps the coating set.
Whether you’re baking or frying, don’t crowd the pan or baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate and keep everything crispy. Enjoy the process!
Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crispy Parmesan Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for baking or pan-frying)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need about 20-25 minutes for cooking if you’re baking. If you’re pan-frying, it will take about 10-12 minutes. Overall, you can expect about 35-40 minutes from start to finish, plus some time to enjoy your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
If you’re baking the chicken, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps achieve that crispy golden crust we all love!
2. Set Up Breading Stations:
Get three shallow bowls ready: in the first, place all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a bit of salt and pepper.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This is key to making sure the coating sticks! Start by dredging each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally, press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Option 1 (Baking): Arrange the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle or brush the tops with olive oil or melted butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Option 2 (Pan-frying): Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, cook the chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer them to a plate and keep warm.
5. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant, about 1-2 minutes (watch closely to avoid browning). Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Mix in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce is smooth. Season it with salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice for a little zing.
6. Serve Up the Deliciousness:
Now it’s time to enjoy! Pour the creamy garlic sauce over your crispy Parmesan chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve it with your favorite sides—think pasta, mashed potatoes, or even some steamed veggies. Dig in and enjoy this delightful dish!
With every bite, you’ll experience the amazing contrast of the crispy, cheesy chicken paired with that rich and creamy garlic sauce. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a delicious homemade dinner!
FAQ About Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and remain juicy. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through than breasts.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream in the Sauce?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to thicken the sauce. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or a non-dairy milk with a thickener, keeping in mind that this might change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat in the oven rather than in the microwave to keep the chicken crispy.
Can I Make the Breading Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the breading mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to coat the chicken right before cooking for the best results!
