When it comes to comforting and impressive dinners, Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce never fails to please. This dish marries crispy golden chicken with a velvety garlic cream sauce that’s both rich and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for guests or simply craving something special at home, it’s a recipe worth mastering.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness.
Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Dredge each piece in flour, then coat in Parmesan cheese.

2. Pan-Fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
Set aside on a plate.

3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Melt butter in the same pan.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. Simmer gently until thickened.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine & Serve

Return chicken to the pan and coat with the sauce.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Delicious Serving Ideas

Here are a few pairing suggestions to make this dish even more satisfying:

Over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery pasta
With roasted green beans, asparagus, or steamed broccoli
Alongside a crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette

Pair your crispy chicken with this buttery garlic butter asparagus orzo for a balanced, flavorful plate.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Want to make it your own? Try one of these:

Lemon Garlic Version: Add lemon juice and zest to the sauce for brightness.
Herb-Crusted Chicken: Mix thyme, rosemary, or basil into the Parmesan.
Spicy Garlic Sauce: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the cream for heat.
Mushroom Garlic Sauce: Stir in sautéed mushrooms before adding the cream.

Want more garlic? This creamy shrimp scampi lasagna is rich, garlicky, and indulgent.

Tips for the Best Results

Use freshly grated Parmesan — it melts better and adds superior flavor.
Don’t rush the simmer — let the sauce thicken slowly for a creamy texture.
Pound chicken evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly and stays juicy.
Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving for optimal tenderness.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freeze: Freeze chicken without sauce for up to 2 months. Sauce is best made fresh.

Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving)

Calories: ~480 kcal
Protein: ~40g
Fat: ~32g
Carbs: ~9g

Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and fully cooked.

Can I substitute the cream?
Use half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Swap flour for gluten-free all-purpose flour and ensure your Parmesan is certified GF.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
Simmer gently over low heat and stir constantly once cream is added.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is more than just a dinner — it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a restaurant-quality meal. With a few simple steps and a little attention to detail, you’ll create a dish that’s crispy, creamy, comforting, and unforgettable. Serve it up with your favorite sides and watch it disappear — it’s that good.