Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Alfredo

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Alfredo is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. I love how the crunch from the Parmesan coating pairs perfectly with the smoothness of the sauce, creating a delicious contrast in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together two of my favorite things—crispy, cheesy chicken and creamy Alfredo pasta. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party but easy enough to make on a weeknight. The homemade Alfredo sauce feels luxurious, and the Parmesan crust gives the chicken a beautiful texture that makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour, making it a go-to comfort meal.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce:
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. I season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Then I set up three shallow bowls—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
4. I dredge each chicken breast in the flour first, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help it stick.
5. In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. I sear the chicken for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
6. Once seared, I transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet and bake it for 15–20 minutes, or until fully cooked and crispy.
7. While the chicken bakes, I prepare the Alfredo sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, I melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
8. I pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes. Then I stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
9. I season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, keeping it warm until the chicken is ready.
10. Once the chicken is done, I serve it hot, topped with the creamy Alfredo sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 40 minutes in total—20 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking.

Variations

I sometimes make this dish lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For an extra flavor twist, I like to add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of white wine to the Alfredo sauce. If I want to turn it into a full meal, I serve the chicken over fettuccine or with a side of roasted vegetables. For a gluten-free version, I simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I prefer using the oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep the crust crispy, then I warm the Alfredo sauce separately on the stovetop and pour it over the reheated chicken before serving. If freezing, I freeze the cooked chicken without the sauce for up to 2 months, then make fresh sauce when ready to eat.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, I often use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.

What type of breadcrumbs work best?

I like using Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor, but plain ones also work fine.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I make it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge, then reheat it gently before serving.

How can I keep the chicken crispy?

I make sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing and reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

What pasta goes best with this dish?

I love serving it with fettuccine, linguine, or penne.

Can I add vegetables to the Alfredo sauce?

Yes, I sometimes add spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting grainy?

I add the cheese slowly and stir constantly over low heat to keep it smooth.

Can I substitute mozzarella with another cheese?

Yes, I sometimes use provolone or Monterey Jack for a slightly different flavor.

Can I air fry the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, I air fry it at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway for an extra crispy coating.

Conclusion

I love how this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Alfredo turns a simple dinner into something truly special. The crispy, cheesy coating paired with the creamy, garlicky sauce makes it a comforting dish that always impresses. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for when I want a meal that feels both hearty and elegant.

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