This Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a tasty treat! With a crunchy coating of Parmesan and a rich, creamy garlic sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
Who doesn’t love crispy chicken? 🌟 The creaminess from the garlic sauce makes it even better. I like to serve it with pasta or veggies for a complete meal that feels fancy but is super easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you want a leaner option, try turkey cutlets instead.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese is essential for the crispy coating. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a store-brand grated cheese. Just remember that the flavor may vary slightly.
Heavy Cream: The creamy garlic sauce relies on heavy cream for richness. If you’re aiming for a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the sauce won’t be as thick and creamy.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings fantastic flavor to the sauce. If you don’t have fresh garlic handy, garlic powder can be a substitute, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the sauce.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that crispy, golden crust on your chicken is all about the breading and frying technique. Here’s how to do it well:
- **Dry the Chicken Well:** Use paper towels to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. Moisture can prevent the coating from getting crispy.
- **Layer Properly:** The order of the breading is important. Flour first, then egg wash, and then Parmesan. This helps the coating stick better during frying.
- **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy coating.
- **Use Proper Temperature:** Heat the oil over medium heat. If it’s too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside and be raw inside. You want it to sizzle gently when the chicken hits the pan.
Following these tips will give you that perfect crispy texture every time!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- ½ cup olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking, making it a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weekday dinner or a quick weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture and helps the coating stick better. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper for flavor.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Gather three shallow dishes for the breading process. In the first dish, place the flour. In the second dish, beat the eggs with 1 tablespoon of water. In the third dish, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and if you like, the dried Italian seasoning.
3. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and coat it in the flour first, shaking off any extra flour. Next, dip it in the egg wash, making sure it’s well coated, and then finally press it into the Parmesan mixture. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated on all sides.
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat until hot. Gently add the chicken breasts to the skillet in batches if needed, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate to keep warm.
5. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low. Add the butter and let it melt. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This will create a delicious base for the sauce!
6. Add Cream and Cheese:
Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Stir in the ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and becomes smooth. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Combine & Serve:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, letting them soak in that creamy garlic sauce for about a minute. If you have fresh parsley, sprinkle it over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the Crispy Parmesan Chicken hot, preferably with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. This way, you can savor every bit of that creamy garlic sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensuring your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally gluten-free!
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time! Just store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove and stir in a splash of cream to freshen it up.
What Should I Serve With Crispy Parmesan Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter meal. Don’t forget the crunchy bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce!
