Crispy Fried Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Meal
Looking for a show-stopping dinner that combines crispy, juicy chicken with a creamy, savory sauce? This Crispy Fried Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the perfect meal to impress your family and guests. Crunchy golden chicken breasts are topped with a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce—the definition of comfort food perfection.
In this detailed recipe guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and easy variations to suit any taste or dietary need.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super crispy coating
Easy garlic parmesan sauce made from scratch
Ready in about 45 minutes
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients before you get started:
For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon paprika
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2 large eggs
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Vegetable oil for frying
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
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2 tablespoons butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
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Chopped fresh parsley
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Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the richest flavor.
Equipment Needed
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Meat mallet or rolling pin
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Three shallow dishes or bowls
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Large skillet
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Saucepan
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Tongs
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Paper towels
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make this crispy fried chicken with creamy garlic parmesan sauce:
Step 1 – Flatten the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them to an even thickness—about 1/2 inch.
Why? Even thickness ensures the chicken cooks uniformly and stays juicy.
Step 2 – Prepare the Breading Stations
Set up three shallow dishes:
Flour Mixture: Combine
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon paprika
Egg Mixture:
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Beat 2 large eggs until smooth
Breadcrumb Mixture: Mix
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step 3 – Bread the Chicken
One piece at a time:
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Dredge chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
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Dip in the beaten eggs to coat.
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Press into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, ensuring each side is fully covered.
Transfer breaded chicken to a plate.
Step 4 – Fry the Chicken
Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom by about 1/4 inch.
Heat over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F if using a thermometer).
Working in batches if necessary:
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Carefully place chicken in the hot oil.
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Fry 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5 – Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
While the chicken rests, prepare the sauce:
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In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter.
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Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté about 1 minute, until fragrant (do not let it brown).
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Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
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Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened (2–3 minutes).
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6 – Serve
Place the crispy fried chicken on plates.
Spoon the garlic parmesan sauce generously over each piece.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Garlic butter pasta
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Roasted vegetables
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A crisp green salad
Variations and Tips
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Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for extra heat.
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Baked Version: For fewer calories, bake breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
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Herb Twist: Add 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary to the sauce for earthy flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
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Extra Cheesy: Top with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella just before serving.
Storage and Reheating
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Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to maintain crispiness. Microwave reheating will soften the crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes—boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes—store in the refrigerator up to 2 days and reheat gently over low heat.
What oil is best for frying?
Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Fried Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is everything you love about classic fried chicken with an indulgent, creamy twist. It’s an unforgettable dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for guests.
Try this recipe today and discover your new favorite chicken dinner!