Few things can match the satisfying crunch of golden, parmesan-coated chicken paired with a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce. This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is the kind of dinner that looks and tastes like a gourmet restaurant dish—but is surprisingly easy to make at home in just 30 minutes.

Whether you’re cooking a cozy weeknight meal or looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is a surefire winner. It’s bold, buttery, and incredibly comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish hits all the right notes: juicy, oven-baked chicken with a crisp Parmesan crust, and a luscious garlic cream sauce that’s perfect for spooning over everything on your plate. It’s a go-to meal when you want something satisfying but still quick and budget-friendly.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners with a gourmet touch
• Chicken lovers looking for a new twist
• Fans of creamy garlic flavors
• Easy meal prep or small dinner parties

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ⅛ tsp black pepper

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• ½ cup butter
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ tsp salt
• ⅛ tsp black pepper
• Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Kitchen Equipment

• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Shallow dish for coating
• Saucepan for garlic sauce
• Meat thermometer (optional, for checking doneness)
• Whisk and spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Make the Coating

In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Pro Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor and better texture in the crust.

3. Coat the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Dip each one into the Parmesan-flour mixture, pressing slightly to ensure even coating on all sides.

Place the coated chicken on the lined baking sheet, spacing them apart for even baking.

4. Bake the Chicken

Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is crisp and golden.

Tip: If your chicken breasts are thick, you may need to add a few extra minutes. You can slice them in half horizontally for quicker cooking.

5. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

While the chicken bakes, prepare the garlic cream sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—avoid browning the garlic.

Whisk in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Optional: Stir in a tablespoon of Parmesan to enrich the sauce even further.

6. Plate and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven. Let rest for 2–3 minutes before plating. Drizzle the warm garlic cream sauce generously over the chicken and sprinkle with a bit of extra Parmesan.

Serve immediately while the crust is still crispy and the sauce is warm and silky.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes or buttery mashed cauliflower
• Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus
• A crisp Caesar salad
• Pasta or creamy risotto for a carb-friendly indulgence
• Crusty bread to mop up any leftover sauce

For drinks, a light Chardonnay, sparkling water with lemon, or even a cold glass of cider complement the rich flavors well.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerator:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Freezer:
You can freeze the cooked chicken (without sauce) for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for best texture. The sauce is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored separately for 2–3 days in the fridge.

Tips and Variations

• Make it low-carb: Swap the flour for almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.
• Add herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary in the coating mix adds a fragrant lift.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little kick.
• Double the sauce: If you love sauce (who doesn’t?), consider doubling the garlic cream portion for drizzling over sides or pasta.
• Butter alternative: Use half butter and half olive oil in the sauce for a lighter option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and tend to be juicier. Adjust the baking time as they may cook slightly faster.

Can I pan-fry instead of bake?

Absolutely. Fry the coated chicken in a little oil over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can coat and refrigerate the chicken ahead of time, but bake it just before serving for best texture. The sauce can be made and stored for up to 2 days.

Is heavy cream necessary?

It’s ideal for the creamiest sauce, but you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk in a pinch. The sauce may be thinner, but still tasty.

Final Thoughts

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a quick, flavorful, and comfort-filled dish that’ll easily make its way into your regular dinner rotation. It’s got everything: a crispy crust, tender chicken, and a decadent sauce that ties it all together beautifully.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep close at hand.

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