What is comfort food? When you were a kid, the smell of something amazing wafted from your bedroom? What is the best way to prepare a warm, satisfying dinner? How does this Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe work? Is it like chicken nuggets decided to grow up, get a little fancy, but still be just as unbelievably delicious? Is it easy to devour? Is it good to eat chicken with garlic parmesan? Is it easier to make mac and cheese from a box? My family begs for this stuff!
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What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken? It’s essentially tender chicken pieces, usually boneless, skinless breasts, coated in a mixture of spices, herbs, and spices. Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a few other simple ingredients, then baked or pan-fried to golden brown. Then fried until golden. Think of it as a grown-up, gourmet version of breaded chicken. What is the difference between parmesan cheese and garlic? It’s not just a chicken, but an experience. The beauty of this dish is its simplicity and accessibility. No fancy ingredients, no complicated techniques, just pure, unadulterated comfort food.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Honestly, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons why this Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is a winner in my book. What I love most about this is how incredibly flavorful it is. The combination of garlic and parmesan is just a match made in heaven, creating a savory, cheesy crust that’s absolutely irresistible. The chicken stays juicy and tender on the inside, providing the perfect contrast to the crispy coating.
But it’s not just the flavor that makes this dish so amazing. It’s also ridiculously easy to make. Seriously, even on my busiest weeknights, I can whip this up in under 30 minutes. There’s minimal prep time, and the cooking process is straightforward. It’s one of those recipes where you can actually relax and enjoy the process, instead of feeling stressed and overwhelmed.
And let’s not forget about the cost! The ingredients are all pretty budget-friendly, and you probably already have most of them in your pantry. Parmesan cheese is the only thing you might need to buy, and you can get away with the pre-grated kind, although freshly grated is always a little better.
Finally, it’s crazy versatile! You can serve it with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or even just a simple salad. I even like to chop it up and use it in wraps or sandwiches the next day. It’s a lifesaver when you need a quick, delicious meal that everyone will love. It’s WAY better than takeout, and honestly, it’s become a regular in my rotation. If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing chicken dish, look no further!
How do I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
Quick Overview
Making this Garlic Parmesan Chicken is honestly a breeze. You basically toss your chicken pieces with a simple breading made of Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a few other seasonings. Then, you bake or pan-fry until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy. The whole process takes less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Seriously, this is so easy, even the most kitchen-averse person can nail it! The advantage of baking is it keeps the chicken super tender, whereas pan-frying gives it a crisper crust, so it’s really up to you. I often bake it when I’m multitasking, as I don’t have to watch it as carefully as if I was pan-frying.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Parmesan Chicken: For a grilled
5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces (I like using smaller pieces as a substitute for meat). Is it possible to cook a chicken faster? ) * 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best, but the pre-grated kind works in a pinch) * 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumb gives the best crunch) * 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 clove of ginger) Is it safe to use 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs? Salt * 1/4 teaspoon black pepper * 2 tablespoons olive oil (for baking) or more for pan-frying.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Is it necessary to line a baking sheet with parchment paper? How do you keep chicken from sticking to your hands? If you’re pan-frying, get your skillet ready over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Combine
In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic (or garlic powder), and salt. Set aside. Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. What is your flavorful coating?
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the Parmesan mixture. Toss well to coat each piece evenly. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered in that cheesy goodness. Sometimes I use my hands to really press the mixture onto the chicken to make sure it sticks.
Step 4: Bake or Pan-Fry
If baking, spread the chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil. Is it necessary to bake chicken for 15 minutes? If pan-frying, heat a generous amount of olive oil in .25 ml skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the Garlic Parmesan Chicken from the oven or skillet and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. What are some good side dishes to serve with this dish?
What is the best way to serve it?
What is the beauty of Garlic Parmesan Chicken? What are your favorite side dishes?What is a quick and easy weeknight meal?Serve it with a side of pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic, or with green salad. Rice is a good option for vegetarians.For a more elegant dinner:What are some great side dishes to serve with roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a creamy risotto?What is a cozy snack?What is your favorite dipping sauce for chicken?What is your favorite song of all timeI love serving this with roasted broccoli and a lemon wedge. Lemon juice is a great garnish for any dish. What are the possibilities? What’s your favorite way to serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken? Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pairings. Is it good to have a cold lunch the next day?
How do I prepare a Parmesan Chicken with Garlic?
Over the years, I’ve made this Garlic Parmesan Chicken countless times, and I have learned a few things. How can I make my life perfect? What is the best advice I can give you?Don’t overcrowd the pan!What are the best ways to spread chicken pieces out in a single layer? Overcrowding the pan will cause the chicken to steam instead of crisping up.What is panko breadcrumbs?Panko breadcrumbs are larger and lighter than regular breadcrumb, which gives the chicken a much better flavor. What makes a crisp Where can I find them in grocery stores?Don’t skimp on Parmesan: it’sWhat is the best Parmesan cheese to serve with this dish? Freshly grated Parmesan is always best, but the pre-grated kind works in a pinch. I find that the pre-grated kind can burn more easily, so watch it carefully.Add a little spice:If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the Parmesan. Is this a good kick without overpowering?How can I adjust the baking time?How long does it take to bake chicken pieces? Use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken is cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).Experiment with flavors.Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors. How do you add lemon zest to Parmesan?Make it ahead:How do you prepare chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it? Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking or pan-frying.Don’t overcook it!What is the most important tip for overcooked chicken? Is it safe to cook chicken just until it’s cooked through and the juices run clear? I always use a meat thermometer.How do I make a crispy crust for chicken?I usually let my skillet heat up for a few minutes before adding the oil. How do you cook chicken?Is it safe to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before coating it in the oven? What is Parmesan This helps the coating to adhere better and prevents the chicken from getting soggy.
And finally, don’t be afraid to experiment! This recipe is just a starting point. Feel free to add your own personal touch and make it your own.
These are all things I’ve learned after years of making this recipe. Trust me, these tips will take your Garlic Parmesan Chicken to the next level!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken (which is rare in my house!), storing it properly is key to maintaining its flavor and texture.
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving this at room temperature for more than two hours, especially if it’s warm.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is my preferred method. The flavor actually seems to get better overnight! Make sure it’s fully cooled down before storing it in the fridge.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This will prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan on freezing the chicken, it’s best to add any extra parmesan or breadcrumbs after reheating, as they can get soggy in the freezer.
Reheating: To reheat, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but it might not be as crispy. I often reheat it in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil to restore the crispness. This is my favorite way to reheat it!
Remember to always check the chicken for any signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells off or has a slimy texture, it’s best to discard it.
Storing and reheating it properly will help you enjoy this delicious chicken for days to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug on a plate. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, smiles on their faces, and empty plates in record time. I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s incredibly easy, undeniably delicious, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll be hooked!
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other chicken recipes on the blog. You might also like my baked parmesan haddock which is prepared similarly! I’m always experimenting with new flavors and techniques, so there’s sure to be something you’ll love.
Happy cooking, everyone! I can’t wait to hear how your Garlic Parmesan Chicken turns out. Feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts, ratings, and any variations you tried. And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!
How to Make the Best Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts about 6 oz each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound mushrooms sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme dried
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in the oil until golden brown on both sides, about 4 minutes each side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and cook until browned. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme.
- Add the Parmesan cheese gradually and stir until melted into the sauce.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Cook for another 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickened to your liking.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and thyme if desired.
