Description: This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe features juicy, golden-brown chicken breasts coated in a crispy Parmesan crust, smothered in a luscious creamy garlic sauce. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that elevates weeknight dinners and is impressive enough for special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the Parmesan crust gets nice and crispy.
Step 2: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This mixture will form the delicious crust for the chicken.
Step 3: Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, immediately transfer the chicken to the Parmesan mixture and press firmly to coat both sides thoroughly. The egg helps the Parmesan mixture adhere to the chicken.
Step 4: Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Searing the chicken adds color and flavor and helps to seal in the juices. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
Step 6: Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it thicken for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should be creamy and slightly reduced.
Step 7: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy garlic sauce. Spoon the sauce over the top of the chicken to ensure it’s well coated. If desired, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken for extra creaminess and flavor.
Step 8: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Step 9: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy, cheesy chicken and a rich, garlicky sauce is simply irresistible. It’s also incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pasta: Serve over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a perfect accompaniment to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful side dish.
- Rice: Serve with white or brown rice.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad or a Caesar salad for a lighter meal.
Tips:
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs adds extra crispiness to the crust.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides the best flavor and texture for the crust.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the correct internal temperature.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken ahead of time by coating it with the Parmesan mixture and storing it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze some lemon juice over the chicken before serving to brighten the flavor.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 425 kcal (estimated, may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size)
- Protein: 40g (estimated)
- Sodium: 500mg (estimated)
Conclusion:
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a must-try recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy crust, juicy chicken, and flavorful sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Yes, you can add vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition. Sauté the vegetables with the garlic before adding the heavy cream and chicken broth.sh of white wine or chicken broth can also add depth and complexity to the sauce.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs for panko, but the crust will be less crispy. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and lighter, resulting in a more textured and crunchy crust.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Parmesan cheese provides the best flavor for this recipe, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. You may also need to simmer the sauce for a longer period to thicken it.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. However, the crust may become slightly soggy after thawing.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
