If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful chicken recipe, this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect choice! With a crispy, cheesy crust infused with savory garlic and herbs, this dish is an easy way to elevate your weeknight dinner.
Made with basic pantry ingredients, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy evenings. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Let’s dive into the recipe, pro tips, and variations to make your chicken extra crispy and delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Just 5 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking.
✔ Crispy & Flavorful – Parmesan and garlic create an irresistible crust.
✔ Healthy & Protein-Packed – A great low-carb, high-protein meal.
✔ Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love this cheesy, crispy chicken.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite herbs, spices, or heat to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 4 |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Breadcrumbs (panko or regular) | 1 cup |
| Garlic powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Dried oregano (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
| Olive oil (or melted butter) | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken & Oven
✔ Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
✔ Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
✔ Trim and pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
✔ Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
✔ In a bowl, mix together:
- Parmesan cheese
- Breadcrumbs
- Garlic powder
-
Dried oregano (if using)
✔ Stir until evenly combined.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
✔ Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the chicken breasts.
✔ Press each chicken breast into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.
✔ Ensure even coating by pressing gently.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
✔ Place coated chicken on the baking sheet, spacing them out.
✔ Bake for 25-30 minutes or until:
- The crust is golden brown.
- The internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
✔ For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes (watch closely to prevent burning).
Step 5: Rest & Serve
✔ Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes.
✔ Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and freshness.
✔ Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken
✨ Use Panko Breadcrumbs – They create a lighter, crispier crust.
✨ Double-Coat for Extra Crunch – Dip chicken in an egg wash before coating with breadcrumbs for a thicker crust.
✨ Broil for a Golden Finish – A quick broil at the end makes the crust extra crispy.
✨ Use Fresh Parmesan – Pre-grated Parmesan doesn’t melt well—freshly grated cheese is best.
✨ Let It Rest – Resting helps retain juices and keeps the chicken tender.
Variations & Add-Ons
✔ Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken – Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
✔ Herb-Infused – Mix in thyme, basil, or rosemary for a Mediterranean twist.
✔ Lemon-Garlic Chicken – Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving for a citrusy kick.
✔ Low-Carb Version – Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
✔ Air Fryer Method – Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway for extra crispiness.
Perfect Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken
✔ Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery goodness.
✔ Roasted Brussels Sprouts – A crispy, caramelized side.
✔ Caesar Salad – The Parmesan and garlic complement the flavors.
✔ Buttery Garlic Bread – Because more garlic is always a good idea!
✔ Zucchini Noodles – A light and healthy option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Coat the chicken, place it on a tray, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Adjust cooking time to 30-35 minutes, as thighs take longer to cook.
3. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
Substitute with crushed crackers, cornflakes, or almond flour.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
5. Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
Yes! Freeze uncooked, breaded chicken on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home in just 30 minutes. With its crispy, cheesy crust and juicy interior, this meal is guaranteed to impress.
Try it for dinner tonight and let the flavors speak for themselves! Enjoy!