Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Sauce

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Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Sauce

Introduction

This dish is a classic comfort food loved by families worldwide. Parmesan-crusted chicken offers the perfect combination of juicy, tender chicken wrapped in a crispy, flavorful crust. Paired with a rich, velvety cream sauce, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any dinner table. It’s easy to make and perfect for special occasions or weeknight meals.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs (beaten)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil) for frying

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

  • Chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
  • Flatten chicken breasts to an even thickness (around ½ inch) using a meat mallet.
  • In three separate shallow bowls, prepare the dredging station:
    1. Bowl 1: Flour.
    2. Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
    3. Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper mixed together.
  1. Bread the Chicken:
  • Coat each chicken breast in flour, ensuring it’s fully covered.
  • Dip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
  • Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly. Set aside.
  1. Cook the Chicken:
  • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Fry the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  1. Make the Creamy Sauce:
  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste (roux).
  • Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps.
  • Add Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
  1. Serve:
  • Place the crispy chicken on a serving platter and drizzle with the creamy sauce.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation

Instructions:

For the Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
  • If the chicken breasts are thick, you may want to pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch) for even cooking.
  • Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  1. Make the Coating:
  • In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
  1. Coat the Chicken:
  • Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  • Then dredge the chicken in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
  1. Fry the Chicken:
  • Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the pan.
  • Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
  • Remove from the skillet and set aside.

For the Creamy Sauce:

  1. Make the Sauce:
  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, scraping up any bits left from the chicken.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  1. Add the Cream:
  • Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
  • Stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  1. Combine:
  • Once the sauce has thickened, return the crispy chicken to the skillet and spoon some sauce over the top. Let it simmer for a couple more minutes to reheat the chicken.
  1. Serve:
  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve hot with your favorite sides, like pasta, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.

Tips:

  • For extra crunch, you can double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the egg and Parmesan mixture twice before frying.
  • You can also bake the chicken instead of frying it for a lighter version—bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

History

Parmesan-crusted chicken draws inspiration from Italian cuisine, particularly dishes like “Pollo alla Milanese,” where thinly breaded and fried meats are served with fresh herbs and cheese. The creamy sauce, on the other hand, is a modern addition that enhances the dish’s richness

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Sauce is a relatively modern dish that draws inspiration from classic Italian cooking and American comfort food. Its history is a fusion of Italian influences and the American love for fried chicken and creamy sauces.

Italian Influence:

The use of Parmesan cheese in this dish is a nod to Italian cuisine, where Parmesan (Parmigiano-Reggiano) has been a staple for centuries. The cheese itself dates back to the 12th century in Italy, specifically in the regions of Emilia-Romagna and Lombardy. Parmesan cheese is prized for its sharp, nutty flavor and its ability to enhance savory dishes. In Italian cooking, breadcrumbs are often used for breading meats, adding a crunchy texture and a flavorful base, making it a natural pairing with chicken.

Fried Chicken and Creamy Sauces:

While the specific pairing of crispy chicken with creamy sauce is more modern, it draws on the American tradition of fried chicken and rich, indulgent gravies or sauces. Fried chicken, a Southern classic, has roots in both African and Scottish culinary traditions, where frying chicken in oil or fat became a popular method of cooking in the 18th century.

Creamy sauces, on the other hand, are often linked to French cuisine, where sauces like béchamel and velouté form the foundation of many dishes. The American interpretation of these sauces often incorporates dairy ingredients like heavy cream, butter, and cheese, which complement the crispy textures and rich flavors.

The Modern Dish:

The combination of crispy Parmesan crusted chicken with a creamy sauce likely emerged in the late 20th century as chefs and home cooks began to merge different culinary influences. The Parmesan crust adds a savory crunch to the tender chicken, while the creamy sauce balances out the richness, making it an indulgent, comforting meal that blends Italian and American elements.

Today, this dish has become a popular choice in American households and restaurants, often served with sides like pasta, mashed potatoes, or vegetables. Its versatility and the ease with which it can be adapted for different diets and preferences (e.g., using gluten-free breadcrumbs or lighter cream options) have contributed to its widespread appeal.

Benefits

  1. Protein-Rich: The chicken provides a high amount of lean protein, aiding muscle growth and repair.
  2. Flavorful yet Balanced: Parmesan and breadcrumbs add flavor without overwhelming the dish.
  3. Customizable: This recipe can be adapted with gluten-free or dairy-free substitutes.
  4. Versatile Pairing: It pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad

  1. High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
  2. Rich in Healthy Fats: Parmesan cheese adds healthy fats, which can support brain health and energy levels.
  3. Packed with Nutrients: The creamy sauce often contains ingredients like garlic and herbs, which provide vitamins and antioxidants to support your immune system.
  4. Satisfying and Filling: This dish is both comforting and satisfying, helping you feel full longer, which can aid in portion control and prevent overeating.
  5. Good for Bone Health: Both the chicken and Parmesan provide calcium, which is important for strong bones.
  6. Customizable for Dietary Needs: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit low-carb, gluten-free, or keto diets by adjusting the crusting ingredients.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~450 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken (per serving, about 1 chicken breast):

  • Calories: 400-500 kcal
  • Protein: 40-45g
  • Carbohydrates: 10-15g (mainly from the crusting mixture)
  • Fat: 25-30g (from the chicken, Parmesan cheese, and oil used for frying)
  • Fiber: 1-2g
  • Sodium: 700-800mg (due to Parmesan and seasoning)

Creamy Sauce (per serving):

  • Calories: 150-250 kcal
  • Protein: 4-6g
  • Carbohydrates: 4-8g (mainly from heavy cream or milk)
  • Fat: 12-20g (from heavy cream, butter, or cheese)
  • Sodium: 300-500mg

Total for the Entire Dish (Chicken + Sauce):

  • Calories: 550-750 kcal per serving
  • Protein: 44-50g
  • Carbohydrates: 14-20g
  • Fat: 35-50g
  • Sodium: 1,000-1,300mg

This is an approximation and can vary based on the specific ingredients, such as the type of oil used for frying, the amount of cream, and whether low-fat alternatives are chosen.

Conclusion

Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Creamy Sauce is a beloved recipe that combines texture, flavor, and elegance. Its ease of preparation and adaptability make it a must-try for home cooks. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating your family, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Lovers of This Dish

This recipe is adored by anyone who loves Italian-inspired flavors, creamy sauces, and crispy textures. From kids to adults, it’s a meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters.

Enjoy your cooking adventure and share this hearty meal with your loved ones

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