This crispy Parmesan chicken is a favorite for dinner. It’s breaded to perfection and topped with a rich, creamy garlic sauce that takes it over the top!
Trust me, you’ll want to lick the plate clean! I serve it with pasta or veggies—perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests. Who can resist that mix of flavors?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. If you’re looking for something different, chicken thighs can be a juicier alternative, or you can use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely flavor. However, if you want something milder, use Romano or Pecorino. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor. If you’re gluten-free, you can use crushed cornflakes or almond flour instead. Panko breadcrumbs yield an extra crispy texture!
Heavy Cream: This provides richness to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, half-and-half or even coconut milk can be substituted. For a vegan take, use cashew cream or a non-dairy cream alternative.
How Can I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
Getting your chicken perfectly crispy is all about the breading process. Follow these tips for success:
- Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and helps it stay juicy.
- Don’t rush the breading. Coat each piece thoroughly, pressing the breadcrumbs on firmly so they adhere well.
- Heat the oil before adding the chicken. Doing this ensures a better sear and crispy crust. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Fry in small batches to avoid crowding the pan. This keeps the oil hot and helps the chicken fry evenly.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, making a total of 30 minutes. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, let’s get your chicken ready! Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps them cook evenly. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper to add flavor.
2. Set Up Breading Stations:
Now, we’ll set up our breading stations. In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens!
3. Bread the Chicken:
Take one chicken breast at a time. First, coat it with flour—shake off any extra. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Press down a little to make sure it sticks well! Repeat with all chicken breasts.
4. Fry the Chicken:
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. It should shimmer when hot. Carefully add the breaded chicken breasts, giving them enough space. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through (check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F / 75°C). Once done, place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
5. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—don’t let it burn! Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and nice and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
Time to eat! Plate your crispy Parmesan chicken breasts and generously spoon the creamy garlic sauce over each piece. If you like, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
7. Optional:
For a complete meal, serve with pasta, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your deliciously crispy chicken with that rich, creamy garlic sauce—it’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Another Type of Meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option. For a lighter meal, you can also use turkey cutlets. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure they reach the appropriate internal temperature!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to help maintain its crispiness, or microwave gently with the creamy sauce until heated through.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time! Just store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to use it, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through.
What Are Some Serving Suggestions?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! You can serve it over pasta to soak up the sauce, alongside steamed vegetables for a healthier option, or with a fresh salad for a light meal. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite sides!
