Description
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe is a delicious and quick meal featuring crispy, golden-breaded chicken breasts seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy garlic sauce infused with Parmesan and Italian herbs. Optional spinach adds a fresh touch, making it a hearty and flavorful dinner option that comes together in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 small–medium chicken breasts (or 2 large, halved)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Parmesan Coating
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup light cream or heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or oregano
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavor penetrates the meat before cooking.
- Make the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each seasoned chicken breast in this mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres well.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet and cook until the crust turns golden brown and crispy on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the cream, Italian seasoning, and optional chopped spinach. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
- Finish Cooking: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some sauce over them, cover, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and juicy.
- Serve: Plate the chicken breasts and generously pour the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over the top. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in the crust and sauce.
- Light cream will yield a lighter sauce, whereas heavy cream makes it richer and thicker.
- For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken briefly in Italian seasoning and garlic before coating.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the pan when searing to maintain the crust’s crispness.
- Optional spinach adds a nice color and nutritional boost but can be omitted if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
