If you love the classic flavors of garlic and Parmesan, then you’ll absolutely adore this Garlic Parmesan Chicken. With a crispy, golden crust and juicy chicken inside, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The savory garlic and rich Parmesan cheese create a mouthwatering combination that will make this one of your go-to recipes. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and pairs perfectly with pasta, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad!
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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Crispy and Flavorful: A perfectly crunchy crust infused with garlic and Parmesan.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your pantry.
- Family-Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
- Versatile: Serve it over pasta, alongside veggies, or in a sandwich!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup (120g / 0.26 lb) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (60g / 0.13 lb) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for richer flavor)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil. - Pound the Chicken:
Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Step 2: Make the Coating
- Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a shallow dish, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. - Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. This will help the coating stick to the chicken.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dip the Chicken:
Dip each chicken breast into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge the chicken in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing the coating firmly onto both sides. - Place on the Baking Sheet:
Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil (or melted butter) to help the coating get crispy.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Bake:
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Air Fryer Option: For an extra crispy finish, cook the chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use Fresh Garlic: If you prefer, substitute garlic powder with freshly minced garlic for a bolder flavor.
- Make It Healthier: Use whole-wheat breadcrumbs and reduce the amount of oil or butter to lighten up the dish.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep it crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will be slightly juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take longer to cook through.
What’s the best way to reheat this chicken?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the air fryer to retain its crispiness.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Can I fry the chicken instead of baking it?
Yes! You can fry the chicken in a skillet with oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
Can I add other seasonings to the coating?
Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or thyme for extra flavor.
Tips and Notes
- My Tip: For an even crispier texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Pro Trick: Let the coated chicken sit for 5 minutes before baking to allow the coating to adhere better.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a simple green salad or serve over pasta with a light marinara sauce for a full meal.
Variations
- Cheesy Chicken Parmesan: Top the baked chicken with marinara sauce and mozzarella, then broil until bubbly for a classic chicken Parmesan dish.
- Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture for a little kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: Use chicken tenders instead of breasts for a kid-friendly version.
- Lemon Garlic Chicken: Add fresh lemon zest to the coating and serve with lemon wedges for a bright citrus flavor.
- Herbed Garlic Chicken: Mix in fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme with the Parmesan for an herby twist.
