Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe for Dinner Magic

Crispy, golden chicken with parmesan and garlic creates a mouthwatering main dish that promises pure culinary excitement.

Succulent meat gets coated in a perfectly seasoned blend of cheesy goodness.

Weeknight dinners rarely feel this luxurious without complicated preparation.

Fragrant herbs and sharp cheese complement tender chicken pieces beautifully.

Minimal ingredients mean maximum flavor in every single bite.

Quick cooking techniques ensure you savor a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Dive into this irresistible recipe that will become your new dinner favorite.

Best Storage Techniques for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

  • Refrigerate leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Store chicken pieces separately from other ingredients to preserve crispy texture and prevent sogginess.
  • Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in the container for extra protection.
  • Label the container with the date of preparation to track storage time accurately.

FAQs

  • Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, you can substitute panko with regular breadcrumbs, but panko creates a crispier, lighter coating that gives the chicken a better texture.

  • Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

Searing helps create a golden, crispy exterior and locks in moisture, enhancing the flavor and texture of the chicken. It’s recommended but not mandatory.

  • How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165F (74C), which ensures it’s safe to eat and fully cooked through.

  • Can I prepare this recipe with chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well with this recipe and can be a more flavorful alternative to chicken breasts, just adjust cooking time slightly based on the meat’s thickness.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken: What Makes It Special

  • Savor Quick Flavor Fusion: This recipe combines crispy panko coating with rich parmesan and garlic, delivering a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
  • Master Simple Cooking Technique: Searing then baking creates a perfectly golden, juicy chicken that's foolproof for cooks of all skill levels, guaranteeing delicious results every single time.
  • Customize Your Culinary Adventure: Swap Italian seasoning or add different herbs to match your taste preferences, making this dish versatile for family dinners or impressive gatherings with friends.
  • Minimal Ingredient Magic: With just a few pantry staples, you can transform ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering main course that looks and tastes like a gourmet preparation.

Ingredients in Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breast: Lean protein that serves as the primary ingredient for this crispy and flavorful dish.
Coating Ingredients:
  • Panko Breadcrumbs, Parmesan Cheese: Create a crunchy and savory exterior that adds texture and rich flavor to the chicken.
  • Minced Garlic: Provides a bold and aromatic taste that enhances the overall seasoning of the dish.
  • Italian Seasoning: Offers a blend of herbs that adds depth and traditional Mediterranean flavor.
Binding and Cooking Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Act as a crucial binding agent to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken.
  • Olive Oil: Helps create a golden-brown sear on the chicken before baking.
  • Salt, Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that enhance and balance the chicken's natural flavor.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish and visual appeal to the completed dish.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Oven

Fire up your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Create Crunchy Coating

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients to create a flavor-packed breading:
  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Grated parmesan cheese
  • Minced garlic
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Mix these ingredients thoroughly until well blended.

Step 3: Prepare Egg Wash

Whisk eggs in a separate bowl until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dunk each chicken breast into the egg wash, ensuring complete coverage.

Then roll the chicken in the parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick.

Step 5: Sear to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden crust forms.

Step 6: Bake to Completion

Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes.

Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Tips to Enhance Garlic Parmesan Chicken Flavor

  • Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko to make this recipe celiac-friendly and inclusive.
  • Pat chicken breasts completely dry before coating to ensure maximum crispiness and better breadcrumb adhesion.
  • Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to help retain moisture and prevent dryness during serving.
  • Use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced for more robust and authentic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
  • Check chicken temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee perfect doneness and food safety every time.

Flavor Variations That Work with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

  • Gluten-Free Chicken Crunch: Replace panko with crushed gluten-free rice crackers or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Herb Lovers' Variation: Swap Italian seasoning with fresh chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage for an aromatic herbal profile.
  • Low-Carb Keto Option: Use crushed pork rinds instead of panko and add extra grated parmesan for a crispy, carb-free coating.
  • Spicy Southwest Chicken: Mix in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for a zesty southwestern flavor kick.

Side Pairings to Complement Garlic Parmesan Chicken

  • Weeknight Dinner Hero: Pair this crispy chicken with roasted seasonal vegetables for a complete, colorful meal that's both nutritious and delightful.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Party Plate: Slice the chicken into strips, serve alongside a zesty marinara dipping sauce, and watch guests devour every bite at gatherings or game nights.
  • Salad Topper Transformation: Chop the garlic parmesan chicken and sprinkle over a fresh mixed green salad, creating a protein-packed lunch that's quick and satisfying.
  • Sandwich Sensation: Stack sliced chicken between crusty ciabatta bread with melted provolone, fresh arugula, and a light garlic aioli for a gourmet lunch option.
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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe


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4.5 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent garlic parmesan chicken brings Italian-inspired comfort to dinner tables. Home cooks can easily craft this delicious protein-packed meal with simple ingredients and quick preparation techniques.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Coating Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Wet Ingredients and Seasonings:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 400F (200C) and cover a baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal cooking surface.
  2. Combine crispy panko breadcrumbs, finely grated parmesan cheese, crushed garlic, aromatic Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a mixing container.
  3. Create an egg wash by thoroughly whisking eggs in a separate bowl.
  4. Dredge each chicken breast first into the egg mixture, ensuring complete coverage, then carefully roll in the seasoned parmesan breadcrumb blend.
  5. Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and quickly sear chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes on each side until achieving a rich golden-brown exterior.
  6. Carefully transfer seared chicken to the prepared baking sheet, then roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, confirming doneness when internal temperature reaches 165F (74C).
  7. Remove from oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately while maintaining optimal temperature and crispiness.

Notes

  • Create a crispy coating by ensuring the breadcrumb mixture completely covers the chicken without leaving any bare spots for an evenly golden exterior.
  • Toast the panko breadcrumbs slightly in a dry pan before mixing with parmesan to enhance their nutty flavor and crunchiness.
  • Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before coating to guarantee uniform cooking and prevent dry edges.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute panko with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 424 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 529 mg
  • Fat: 23 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 45 g
  • Cholesterol: 165 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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