Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful dish that marries crispy, golden-brown chicken with a rich, creamy garlic sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious weeknight meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. With its satisfying crunch and wonderful flavors, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite in many homes. Plus, it’s quick and straightforward to prepare, making it a go-to for busy nights.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe stands out for its incredible balance of textures and flavors. It’s both budget-friendly and exceedingly comforting, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Kids and adults alike will love that the chicken is crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. And who can resist that creamy garlic sauce?
"This Parmesan Crusted Chicken has become a staple in our house! The chicken is so tender and flavorful; my kids can’t get enough!" – Sarah T.
Step-by-step overview
Preparing Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a breeze and can be done in just a few simple steps. You’ll start by getting your oven ready and mixing up the crunchy coating. Then, coat the chicken in olive oil, dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, and bake to golden perfection. While the chicken is baking, you’ll whip up the creamy garlic sauce on the stovetop. In less than an hour, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready for enjoyment!
What you’ll need
To create this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Feel free to use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version, or swap the Parmesan for a non-dairy cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- In a skillet, combine heavy cream and minced garlic over medium heat.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, stirring frequently.
- Serve the chicken topped with creamy garlic sauce and garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy with pasta, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Best ways to enjoy it
Parmesan Crusted Chicken can be flexibly paired with various sides. Consider serving it over a bed of fettuccine tossed in olive oil and garlic, or alongside a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables—like asparagus or Brussels sprouts—add a lovely crunch and complement the richness of the dish nicely. For a heartier meal, buttery mashed potatoes are an excellent choice.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep any leftovers from this dish fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to warm the chicken in the oven to maintain its crispy texture. If you’d like to freeze it, ensure the chicken is cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to three months.
Helpful cooking tips
Achieve the best results with these handy tips. For extra crunch, try mixing some panko breadcrumbs into your breadcrumb mixture. This adds a delightful texture that enhances the overall eating experience. Additionally, let the coated chicken rest for about 10 minutes before baking to set the crust better.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with flavors! You can spice things up by adding some cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix for an extra kick. Alternatively, add some herbs like thyme or oregano for a different herbal profile.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
The total prep and cook time is about 45 minutes, making this a feasible option for a busy weeknight.Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes! You can use half-and-half or a lighter cream if you’re looking for a healthier version. For dairy-free, a cashew cream could work too.How should I reheat the leftovers?
For best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at a low temperature to keep the breadcrumbs crispy. You can also use an air fryer if you have one.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- In a skillet, combine heavy cream and minced garlic over medium heat.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, stirring frequently.
- Serve the chicken topped with creamy garlic sauce and garnish with chopped parsley.
