Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Crispy Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Parmesan Mushroom Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Chicken

1. Season the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Set Up the Breading Stations:
   • In one shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and pepper.
   • In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
   • In a third shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
3. Bread the Chicken:
   • Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
   • Dip into the beaten eggs, then press into the panko mixture, ensuring each side is well-coated.
4. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Fry the breaded chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove from the skillet and set aside to drain on a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 2: Prepare the Parmesan Mushroom Sauce

1. Cook the Mushrooms:
   • In the same skillet, add butter and olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they are golden and tender.
2. Add Garlic:
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • Add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine with the mushrooms.
   • Bring to a simmer, then add Parmesan cheese and Dijon mustard, whisking until smooth.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
   • Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

1. Serve the Chicken:
   • Place the crispy chicken breasts on serving plates.
2. Top with Sauce:
   • Spoon the creamy Parmesan mushroom sauce over the chicken.
3. Garnish:
   • Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
4. Serve Immediately:
   • Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Chef’s Tips

• For Extra Crispiness: Toast the panko breadcrumbs in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes before breading the chicken.
• Mushroom Variation: Try using a mix of wild mushrooms for more depth of flavor in the sauce.
• Make-Ahead Tip: The sauce can be prepared ahead of time and reheated gently before serving.

Enjoy this golden crispy chicken with a rich, creamy Parmesan mushroom sauce that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!