Golden, crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken meets a velvety, garlicky cream sauce in this quick and flavorful dinner recipe. It’s comfort food at its finest—easy enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for guests.
Why You’ll Love It
This dish delivers the perfect combo of crispy and creamy. The chicken is seared until golden with a savory Parmesan coating, then topped with a rich garlic cream sauce that’s loaded with flavor. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it your new go-to for quick and satisfying meals.
Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with roasted veggies—it’s a versatile main that never disappoints.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 small to medium chicken breasts (or 2 large, halved)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup light cream or heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or oregano
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chopped spinach (optional)
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
- Extra Crispy: Coat chicken in a Parmesan + panko breadcrumb mix.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.
- One-Pan: Add sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to cook in the sauce.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for portobello mushrooms.
- Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower mash or a green salad.
How to Make It
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce
Lower the heat. In the same skillet, sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Slowly add cream while stirring. Mix in Italian seasoning and Parmesan until the sauce is smooth. Stir in spinach (if using) and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
Return the chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over top, and simmer for 1 minute to heat through. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Tips for Success
- Hot Pan = Crispy Chicken: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best melt and flavor.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Simmer longer for a thicker sauce; add more cream for a thinner one.
Serving Ideas
- Toss with pasta like fettuccine or linguine.
- Spoon over creamy mashed potatoes.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
Make Ahead & Storage
Leftovers: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezing: Freeze chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave in short intervals.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work great and add extra juiciness.
Is half-and-half okay instead of cream?
Absolutely! The sauce will be slightly lighter but still creamy.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Skip the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free ones.
Can I add more veggies?
Definitely—mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach work well in the sauce.
How do I make it spicier?
A dash of red pepper flakes or cayenne will do the trick.
Can I bake the chicken instead?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is everything you want in a quick dinner: crisp on the outside, juicy inside, and smothered in a savory, creamy sauce. With minimal prep and customizable options, it’s bound to become a favorite in your weekly rotation. Pair it with your go-to sides and watch the whole family dig in.