Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

---

Introduction

This dish combines tender, juicy chicken coated in a crispy Parmesan crust, finished with a luscious creamy garlic sauce. It’s a comfort food classic that feels elegant enough for date night but easy enough for a weeknight meal. Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.

---

🍗 Ingredients

For the Crispy Parmesan Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally (to make 4 cutlets)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian style)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
• 1 tbsp butter

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

---

👩‍🍳 Instructions & Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch thick).
2. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Set Up a Breading Station

1. In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
2. In the second, beat the eggs.
3. In the third, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Dip into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
3. Press the coating on gently so it sticks well.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Whisk in 1 tbsp flour and cook for another 30 seconds to make a roux.
4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Add the heavy cream and simmer until thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

1. Return the crispy chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over each piece.
2. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to heat through.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley.

---

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve over fettuccine, mashed potatoes, or steamed asparagus.
• Add a side salad or garlic bread for a full meal.

---

💡 Chef’s Tips

• For extra crunch, mix panko and Italian breadcrumbs.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed to keep the coating crispy.
• You can substitute boneless chicken thighs for juicier meat.

---