Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Are you ready for a dinner that’s crunchy, flavorful, and packed with all the good stuff? Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is about to become your go-to recipe when you want something that feels special without the hassle. Picture juicy, tender chicken breasts with a golden, crispy, and cheesy coating that’s just bursting with flavor. Trust me, it’s as good as it sounds—and it’s easy to make, too!

This recipe is perfect for any night of the week when you’re craving something comforting and delicious. Whether you’re serving it alongside a fresh salad or mashed potatoes, or even on top of pasta, this garlic Parmesan crusted chicken will make you feel like a culinary pro.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Let’s get real—this dish checks all the boxes:

Crispy Perfection: The Parmesan coating gives each bite a satisfying crunch, while the garlic adds a savory depth that’ll leave you wanting more. It’s a winning combination of textures and flavors.

Simple Ingredients: You don’t need a bunch of fancy ingredients to make this recipe. With just a few pantry staples, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on your table in no time.

Quick and Easy: No complicated steps here—this recipe is simple enough for beginners and so delicious, even experienced cooks will love it. It’s an effortless weeknight dinner or a meal to impress your guests.

Kid-Friendly: The crispy, cheesy coating is a hit with kids and adults alike. You won’t hear any complaints when this is served!

Versatile: You can pair it with almost anything—vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or even serve it in sandwiches or wraps for a fun twist.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this garlic Parmesan crusted chicken:

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. They stay juicy and cook evenly under the crispy crust.

Garlic Powder: Adds that deep garlic flavor that everyone loves. It pairs perfectly with the Parmesan.

Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. It helps create that golden, crispy crust.

Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs work wonderfully here. They create a light, crunchy texture that gives the chicken a satisfying crunch.

Eggs: Eggs act as the binding agent, helping the coating stick to the chicken.

Butter: For a bit of richness and to help the crust get perfectly golden and crisp.

Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh taste to balance the savory flavors.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get started! Here’s how you make this irresistible garlic Parmesan crusted chicken:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken will cook through while getting perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This will help the crust stick better. You can also gently pound them with a meat mallet to make them even in thickness for more even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Coating
In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and chopped parsley. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs. Dip each chicken breast first into the eggs, making sure it’s coated, then into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so it sticks well.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Once both sides of the chicken are browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). The crust should be crispy, and the chicken will be tender and juicy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite side dish and enjoy the crispy, garlicky goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 380
Fat: 20g
Carbs: 12g
Protein: 41g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This chicken is versatile and can be served in so many ways. Here are a few ideas:

With a Fresh Salad: Serve it over a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal that’s both hearty and refreshing.

On Top of Pasta: Place your chicken on a plate of pasta (think spaghetti or fettuccine) and top it with marinara sauce or a creamy Alfredo sauce for a more indulgent dish.

With Veggies: Pair this chicken with roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini. The crispy coating contrasts nicely with the tender veggies.

In Sandwiches or Wraps: For a fun twist, slice the chicken and serve it in a sandwich or wrap with some lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch or Caesar dressing.

With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with crispy chicken. Add a bit of gravy or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top!

Additional Tips

Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.

Use Skinless Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work great in this recipe too. They’re juicy and flavorful, with a slightly different texture than breasts.

Bake Without Searing: If you prefer to skip the stovetop searing step, you can bake the chicken right away at 400°F (200°C). Just place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Add More Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add a little extra Parmesan on top of the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking for an even cheesier crust.

Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, but try to crisp it up again in a pan if possible!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this chicken gluten-free?
A1: Yes, just substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use crushed gluten-free crackers instead. Make sure your Parmesan is also gluten-free.

Q2: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A2: While fresh chicken breasts work best for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken breasts as long as they’re fully thawed before cooking.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can coat the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Q4: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A4: The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.

Q5: Can I make this in a regular pan instead of a skillet?
A5: Yes, you can use a regular frying pan, but make sure it’s oven-safe so you can transfer it to the oven for baking.

Q6: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A6: Yes, you can try using Pecorino Romano or even a mild mozzarella for a slightly different flavor.

Q7: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A7: You can use less butter, or substitute it with olive oil, and use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier alternative.

Q8: Can I serve this with a dipping sauce?
A8: Absolutely! Garlic butter, ranch dressing, or a tangy marinara sauce would pair beautifully with this crispy chicken.

Q9: How long does this chicken stay good in the fridge?
A9: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Q10: Can I make this recipe with chicken tenders?
A10: Yes! Chicken tenders would work perfectly with this recipe. Just reduce the cooking time by a few minutes since they’re smaller.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is one of those recipes that brings joy with every bite. It’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors, yet simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just looking for a quick and tasty dinner, this dish won’t disappoint. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can serve it with whatever sides you love. So, what are you waiting for? Try it today and watch it become a new favorite!

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