Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 egg

• 2 tablespoons milk

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)

• ¼ cup regular breadcrumbs

• 3–4 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch) using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.

• Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Set Up the Dredging Stations

• In the first bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, a little salt, and pepper.

• In the second bowl, beat the egg and milk together.

• In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.

3. Coat the Chicken

• Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.

• Then dip into the egg wash.

• Finally, coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks well.

4. Fry the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

• Transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep warm.

5. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and melt the butter.

• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn).

• Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan (this adds flavor!).

• Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Assemble and Serve

• Slice the chicken if desired.

• Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the crispy chicken.

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if using.

Serve immediately while everything is hot and luscious!

Tips for Best Results:

• Don’t rush the frying: Medium heat is key. Too hot, and the crust burns before the chicken cooks.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting.

• Add a squeeze of lemon to the sauce for a subtle brightness.

• Serve with mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a full meal!

Would you also like me to give you a creamy garlic mashed potatoes or buttered herb pasta recipe to serve on the side? ️✨