Crispy Parmesan chicken with creamy garlic sauce is one of my favorite comfort meals—it’s packed with flavor, golden on the outside, and tender on the inside. The chicken is coated in a crispy Parmesan crust and finished with a rich, garlicky cream sauce that takes it to the next level. It’s a dish that feels fancy, but is simple enough to make on any weeknight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe gives me both crunch and creaminess in one dish. The crispy Parmesan coating locks in moisture while adding tons of flavor, and the creamy garlic sauce is velvety, bold, and perfect for spooning over the chicken—or even pasta or mashed potatoes on the side. It’s satisfying, versatile, and comes together quickly with pantry ingredients I usually have on hand.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crispy Parmesan chicken:
-
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
-
Salt
-
Black pepper
-
All-purpose flour
-
Eggs
-
Grated Parmesan cheese
-
Italian breadcrumbs or panko
-
Garlic powder
-
Olive oil or butter (for frying)
For the creamy garlic sauce:
-
Butter
-
Garlic, minced
-
Heavy cream or half-and-half
-
Grated Parmesan cheese
-
Salt
-
Black pepper
-
Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the chicken:
-
I pound the chicken to an even thickness and season it with salt and pepper.
-
I set up a breading station with flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and a mix of Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and garlic powder in the third.
-
I dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip it in the egg, then coat it in the Parmesan mixture.
-
I heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Then I set it aside on a plate.
Make the garlic cream sauce:
5. In the same skillet, I reduce the heat and melt butter, then sauté the garlic for about 1 minute.
6. I stir in the cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
7. I add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened. I season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. I return the chicken to the pan or spoon the sauce over the plated chicken, garnishing with parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so I usually have it ready in about 35 minutes total.
Variations
Sometimes I add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the sauce for extra depth. I’ve also stirred in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to give it a little twist. For a spicier version, I add red pepper flakes to the sauce. And if I want to keep it lighter, I use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a little broth or cream to loosen the sauce. It reheats well in the oven, too, at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
FAQs
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, I bake it at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until crispy and cooked through. A quick broil at the end helps it crisp up.
What sides go well with this dish?
I love serving it with mashed potatoes, buttered pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. The sauce is so good, I always want something to soak it up.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Thighs stay extra juicy and work great with the Parmesan crust and creamy sauce.
How do I thicken the garlic sauce?
I let it simmer for a few extra minutes or stir in a little more Parmesan. If I need more help, a small cornstarch slurry works too.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
The cooked chicken can be frozen, but the cream sauce is best made fresh. I store the components separately if freezing.
Conclusion
Crispy Parmesan chicken with creamy garlic sauce is the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is easy enough to make anytime. The golden crust, savory garlic sauce, and tender chicken make it a standout on any dinner table. Whether I serve it for guests or a weeknight dinner, this recipe always delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
