Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Crunchy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Recipe That Wows Everyone

Weeknight dinners come alive with this mouthwatering garlic parmesan chicken recipe that promises a perfect blend of crispy texture and rich flavors.

Golden breadcrumbs coat tender chicken breasts, creating an irresistible crunch that melts in your mouth.

Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth that elevates each bite to new culinary heights.

Simple ingredients from your pantry combine to create a restaurant-worthy meal in just minutes.

The chicken emerges from the oven with a beautiful golden-brown crust that seals in all the juicy goodness.

Clean plates and happy smiles await when you serve this crowd-pleasing dish that turns an ordinary evening into a delicious celebration.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe for your next family dinner.

FAQs

  • Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs. Just ensure they reach the same internal temperature of 165F (74C) for safe consumption.

  • Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make the dish celiac-friendly.

  • How can I make the chicken extra crispy?

For an extra crispy coating, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs. You can also lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray before baking to enhance the crispiness.

  • Can I prepare the chicken coating in advance?

You can mix the Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and seasonings ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. When ready to cook, simply coat the chicken and bake as directed.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 408 kcal

Servings: 5

What’s Needed for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Night

For Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breast: Lean, versatile protein that creates a tender base for the crispy coating, choose fresh, plump breasts with minimal visible fat.
For Flavor Boosters:
  • Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, salty cheese that adds rich umami depth, select freshly grated for maximum flavor intensity.
  • Garlic: Aromatic powerhouse that infuses bold, zesty notes, opt for fresh cloves with firm, smooth skin.
  • Dried Oregano: Earthy herb that provides Mediterranean-inspired complexity, look for vibrant green color indicating freshness.
  • Dried Basil: Sweet, peppery herb that complements the savory elements, choose fragrant, bright green leaves.
For Coating and Binding:
  • Breadcrumbs: Crispy foundation that creates golden, crunchy exterior, select fine-textured crumbs for even coverage.
  • Olive Oil: Smooth, heart-healthy fat that helps seasoning adhere and promotes beautiful browning, choose extra virgin for best flavor.
  • Salt: Essential flavor enhancer that balances and highlights other ingredients, use sea salt or kosher salt for cleaner taste.
  • Black Pepper: Warm, spicy seasoning that adds subtle heat, freshly ground provides most robust flavor.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh herb for garnish that adds visual appeal and light herbal note, choose vibrant green leaves.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken: The Tools That Help Most

  • Baking Sheet: Flat metal pan for even cooking and golden-brown crust.
  • Parchment Paper: Prevents chicken from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
  • Large Mixing Bowl: For combining breadcrumb and Parmesan coating.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions.
  • Pastry Brush: Helps evenly coat chicken with olive oil.
  • Sharp Knife: For chopping fresh parsley and mincing garlic.
  • Cutting Board: Provides a clean surface for ingredient preparation.

Cooking Garlic Parmesan Chicken Without the Guesswork

  • Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375F and get ready for a flavor explosion.

  • Create theal Coating

Whip together the Parmesan, breadcrumbs, aromatic garlic, herbs, and a sprinkle of seasonings into a mouthwatering mixture that’ll make your taste buds dance.

  • Transform the Chicken

Lovingly brush each chicken piece with olive oil, then press it into the heavenly coating until every inch is covered in deliciousness.

  • Bake to Crispy Perfection

Slide the chicken onto a baking sheet and let the oven work its. In about 25-30 minutes, you’ll have a golden, crispy masterpiece that’s cooked through to juicy perfection.

  • Bring It to the Table

Let the chicken rest for a moment, then sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Get ready to enjoy a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

New Twists to Try With Garlic Parmesan Chicken

  • Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels before coating to help the breadcrumb mixture stick better and achieve an extra crispy exterior.
  • Replace traditional breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version that maintains the same delicious crunch.
  • Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for those who enjoy a spicy kick without overwhelming the garlic Parmesan flavor.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground gluten-free crackers to make this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities while keeping the same delightful texture.
  • Prepare the coated chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator, then bake when ready to serve for a quick and easy meal prep solution.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Serving Made Simple

  • Zesty Side Salad: Whip up a crisp green salad with mixed lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette to complement the rich, cheesy chicken.
  • Creamy Accompaniment: Serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes or a smooth cauliflower puree to balance the crunchy chicken coating and add extra comfort to the meal.
  • Veggie Harmony: Roast some colorful vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers with a sprinkle of olive oil and herbs to create a nutritious and vibrant plate that enhances the main dish.
  • Wine Pairing Delight: Enjoy with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, whose crisp acidity will cut through the richness of the Parmesan chicken and elevate the entire dining experience.

Stash Garlic Parmesan Chicken for Another Day

  • Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Carefully wrap each piece separately to maintain its crispy coating and prevent moisture buildup.
  • Wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
  • Restore the chicken's crispiness by using an oven or air fryer at 350F for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwave heating, which can make the coating soggy and compromise the delicious crunch.
  • Assemble the Parmesan coating mixture ahead of time and store in a sealed container at room temperature for up to a week. This makes weeknight cooking faster and more convenient, allowing quick meal preparation whenever hunger strikes.
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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe


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4.8 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Classic Garlic Parmesan Chicken delivers a mouthwatering blend of crispy, herbed coating with tender meat. Succulent chicken breasts emerge golden and flavorful, promising a delightful meal you’ll want to savor again and again.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup (240 ml / 8 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (240 ml / 4 oz) panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup (60 ml / 2 oz) unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat Preparation: Set oven to 375F (190C), establishing an optimal cooking environment for achieving a crisp, golden-brown chicken exterior.
  2. Coating Creation: Blend Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, ensuring uniform distribution of seasonings for a robust flavor profile.
  3. Chicken Transformation: Brush chicken breasts with olive oil, creating a perfect adhesive surface for the seasoned coating, then meticulously press each piece into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture to achieve complete, even coverage.
  4. Baking Technique: Position coated chicken breasts on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet, allowing sufficient space for heat circulation, and roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C) and the exterior turns a tempting golden-brown.
  5. Finishing Touch: Remove chicken from the oven, letting it rest briefly to redistribute juices and set the crisp coating, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant, herbaceous presentation.

Notes

  • Optimize Coating Technique: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken to create a thick, even layer that locks in moisture and maximizes crunch.
  • Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to accurately check the internal temperature, preventing overcooking and ensuring juicy chicken every time.
  • Moisture Preservation: Brush chicken generously with olive oil to help create a golden-brown crust while keeping the meat tender and preventing dryness.
  • Customize Flavor Profiles: Experiment with alternative herbs like thyme or rosemary, or swap Parmesan for pecorino to personalize the dish and explore different taste combinations.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 408
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 410 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 31 g
  • Cholesterol: 102 mg
John Nicholson

John Nicholson

Lead Writer & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Development, Kitchen Hacks and Time-Saving Tips, Flavor Pairing and Ingredient Selection, Engaging Food Writing and Storytelling

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: A hands-on curriculum emphasizing farm-to-table cooking, local ingredient sourcing, and creative menu development. Students gained real-world restaurant experience, learning both classic techniques and modern approaches to sustainable cooking.

John Nicholson honed his skills at Johnson & Wales University, learning how to use fresh, local ingredients and down-to-earth techniques to make cooking simple and satisfying.

His recipes blend Southern comfort flavors with a modern touch, inviting everyone to cook with ease and confidence.

Living in Charleston, John takes cues from the city’s lively food scene, local markets, and seasonal produce. He’s all about making meals stress-free through easy tips, flavor pairings, and fun experiments in the kitchen

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