Crispy Baked Chicken Breasts with Garlic Herb Cream Sauce – A Simple Yet Flavorful Meal

Craving a flavorful, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare? These Crispy Baked Chicken Breasts with Garlic Herb Cream Sauce are just the answer. The crispy chicken breasts are baked to perfection and smothered in a rich and creamy garlic herb sauce that’s bursting with flavor. This dish is a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the garlic herb cream sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Prepare the Chicken
   In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat each chicken breast with olive oil and then dredge them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the chicken is coated evenly.
3. Bake the Chicken
   Place the breaded chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should have a golden, crispy coating.
4. Make the Garlic Herb Cream Sauce
   While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then add the thyme, rosemary, and Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Add the lemon juice for a fresh, tangy flavor and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve
   Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and spoon the garlic herb cream sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Baked Chicken Breasts with Garlic Herb Cream Sauce

• Crispy and Tender Chicken: The chicken is coated with crispy breadcrumbs and baked until golden brown, keeping it tender on the inside.
• Flavorful Garlic Herb Sauce: The creamy garlic herb sauce is rich and aromatic, with the perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors.
• Quick and Easy: This dish is quick to prepare, making it an ideal meal for busy nights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Herb Chicken

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs provide a crispier and lighter coating than regular breadcrumbs, making them perfect for this recipe.
• Make the Sauce Ahead of Time: If you want to save time, you can make the garlic herb sauce in advance and reheat it before serving.
• Customize the Herbs: Feel free to adjust the herbs in the sauce. Fresh thyme or rosemary can be used for an even more intense flavor.

Conclusion

These Crispy Baked Chicken Breasts with Garlic Herb Cream Sauce are a fantastic combination of crispy texture and creamy sauce, making them a winning dish for any occasion. The garlic herb sauce is the star of the show, bringing rich and savory flavors to the perfectly baked chicken. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try today and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s full of delicious flavors!