Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

When it comes to preparing dinner for the family, simplicity and flavor go hand in hand. One dish that beautifully encapsulates these elements is Parmesan Crusted Chicken paired with a decadent Creamy Garlic Sauce. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields delicious results that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and achieve a nice golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This combination will create a flavorful and crunchy coating for the chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off, and then coat it in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Ensure each piece is fully covered for maximum flavor and crunch.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). The crust should be beautifully golden and crispy.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant (be careful not to burn it). Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 7: Serve

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken with a generous drizzle of the creamy garlic sauce on top. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Tips for Success

  • Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality Parmesan cheese will elevate the flavor of both the chicken and the sauce.
  • Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
  • Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

Conclusion

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a surefire way to impress your family at dinner. With its delicious crust and luscious sauce, it turns a simple meal into something special without demanding too much of your time or effort. Enjoy your dinner and the smiles it brings to the table!