This Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a real treat! With its crunchy coating and flavorful garlic sauce, it’s a dish that makes dinner feel special without too much fuss.
Let’s be honest, who can resist crispy chicken topped with a creamy sauce? I love serving it with pasta or veggies for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be used for a bit more flavor and tenderness.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and crispiness. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano works well, or use a pre-grated version, though it won’t be as fresh.
Panko Bread Crumbs: Panko adds a lovely crunch. If you don’t have any, regular bread crumbs can work, but they won’t be as crispy. You could even blitz some old bread in a food processor for a quick homemade version.
Olive Oil: This is great for frying, but if you want a lighter option, avocado oil or even a spray oil can work too. Just keep an eye on the smoke point when cooking.
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
The key to crispy chicken is all in the breading and frying technique! Here’s how to ensure your chicken is beautifully crunchy:
- Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness so it cooks evenly. This prevents some parts from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
- When breading, let each layer stick before moving on. Dredge in flour, shake off the excess, dip in eggs, and then coat with the Parmesan-panko mixture. Press down gently to help it stick.
- Fry in hot oil! When you add the chicken to the skillet, the oil should sizzle. This sears the coating and locks in moisture. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the breading can get soggy.
After frying, place the chicken on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. This will keep the coating crispy!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 20 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. In total, you’ll need about 35 minutes to create and serve this mouthwatering meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Setting Up Breading Stations:
Next, prepare three shallow dishes. In the first one, place the flour. In the second, beat the two eggs until smooth. In the third dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Bread the Chicken:
Now it’s time to coat the chicken! Start by dredging each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it evenly with the Parmesan-panko mixture. Make sure to press down gently to help the coating stick.
4. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and transfer to a plate to keep warm.
5. Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, or until it starts to thicken.
6. Adding Parmesan to the Sauce:
Stir in the remaining grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve:
To serve, plate the crispy Parmesan chicken and drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
8. Enjoy!
Pair your crispy chicken with pasta, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful dish. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best cooking results!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream in the Sauce?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and a bit of cornstarch for thickness. Alternatively, you can use a dairy-free cream if you have dietary restrictions!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, making sure to add a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist.
Can I Freeze the Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken! Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
