why make this recipe
This Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce is quick and tasty. The chicken gets a nice crust and the sauce is smooth and garlicky. If you like easy dinner ideas with big flavor, this recipe fits well with other simple dishes like an easy chicken pot pie using crescent rolls.
introduction
This dish gives crunchy chicken and a creamy garlic sauce in one pan. It cooks fast and uses few ingredients. The sauce is rich but easy to make. For more simple chicken dinner ideas, you can also read about a comforting chicken broccoli cheddar soup.
how to make Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce – Easy Dinner Idea
Work step by step and keep the heat steady. Cook the chicken until it is golden and crispy. Lower the heat for the sauce so the cream and cheese melt smooth. If you want a different chicken idea, try a small, simple dish like chicken hearts recipes and tips.
Ingredients :
4 small to medium chicken breasts (or 2 large halved), Salt and pepper to taste, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 3-4 cloves garlic, minced, 1 cup light cream or heavy cream, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or oregano, 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated, 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
Directions :
Prepare the Chicken:
Season chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
Lower heat and add minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 30 seconds.
Pour in cream, stirring continuously.
Add Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth.
Stir in chopped spinach (if using) and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, spooning sauce over the top.
Simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
Serve hot with pasta, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
how to serve Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce – Easy Dinner Idea
Serve the chicken hot and spoon extra sauce over each piece. Add pasta or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. For a lighter plate, serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with a warm side like an easy chicken pot pie with crescent rolls for a full comfort meal.
how to store Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce – Easy Dinner Idea
Cool the chicken and sauce to room temperature before storing. Put them in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat so the cream does not split, or warm in a microwave in short bursts and stir.
tips to make Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce – Easy Dinner Idea
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help it crisp.
- Use medium-high heat for the first sear, then lower heat for the sauce.
- Grate fresh parmesan for a smoother melt and better flavor.
- Don’t boil the sauce; a gentle simmer keeps it creamy.
- Add spinach at the end so it stays bright and does not overcook.
variation (if any)
- Add mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Use lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Swap Italian seasoning for fresh basil or thyme.
- Make it lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Bone-in or boneless thighs work. Adjust cook time until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I make the sauce without cream?
A: You can use a mix of milk and a little flour to thicken, but the sauce will be lighter and less rich.
Q: How do I keep the chicken crispy when reheating?
A: Reheat in a low oven (about 325°F / 160°C) on a baking sheet for 10–15 minutes. Spoon sauce on after reheating.
Q: Is it safe to freeze this dish?
A: You can freeze the chicken and sauce, but cream sauces can change texture when thawed. Freeze in a sealed container and thaw slowly in the fridge before reheating.
Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Season chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Lower heat and add minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in cream, stirring continuously.
- Add Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in chopped spinach (if using) and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan, spooning sauce over the top.
- Simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- Serve hot with pasta, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.