If you’re in the mood for a dish that’s juicy, savory, and full of flavor, you’ve found your match! Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a crowd-pleaser and the kind of recipe that feels like comfort food, but with that extra wow factor. Picture crispy, golden-brown chicken with a garlicky, cheesy crust that packs a punch. It’s the kind of dish that will make you feel like you’ve just stepped into your favorite cozy restaurant, but it’s made right in your own kitchen. Trust me—this one’s going to be your new favorite!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about making a delicious, mouth-watering meal that everyone will rave about. Here’s why this dish is a winner:
- Versatile: Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this chicken fits right in. It’s a perfect main course, and it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides.
- Quick and Easy: While the flavor is anything but basic, this recipe is so simple to pull off. With just a few ingredients and a few steps, you’ll have a meal that looks and tastes like you spent hours on it.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with ingredients you likely already have at home, this dish proves that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy something amazing.
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s guaranteed to impress. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and crispy chicken is universally loved—kids and adults alike won’t be able to resist!
- Customizable: You can make this chicken your own by adding extra spices or toppings. Love a little heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Want a bit more crunch? Top it with some breadcrumbs!
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Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this irresistible dish to life:
Chicken Breasts:
The star of the show! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. When cooked properly, they become juicy and tender, providing the perfect base for the crispy crust.
Garlic:
Fresh, minced garlic is key to getting that robust, savory flavor in the crust. It pairs beautifully with the Parmesan to create a mouthwatering aroma.
Parmesan Cheese:
The Parmesan adds that signature salty, cheesy crunch we all love. It gives the crust a golden-brown finish that makes it both flavorful and irresistible.
Bread Crumbs:
For the perfect crispy coating. The breadcrumbs create that crunchy texture, while helping to hold everything together. You can use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy finish!
Olive Oil:
A little drizzle of olive oil helps to crisp up the crust and adds richness to the flavor.
Dried Italian Herbs:
Think oregano, basil, and thyme. These herbs bring an earthy, savory depth to the chicken that perfectly complements the garlic and Parmesan.
Salt & Pepper:
To taste. These seasonings bring balance to the flavors and help elevate everything into perfection.
(Note: The full ingredients list with measurements is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into making this delicious dish:
Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and the crust gets perfectly crispy.
Prepare the Crust Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, combine the garlic, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well-combined. This is what will give your chicken that irresistible, golden crust.
Coat the Chicken:
Drizzle olive oil over each chicken breast, then press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated on all sides. You want that golden crust on every bite!
Bake the Chicken:
Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the crust is crispy and golden. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Finish and Serve:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken nice and tender. Serve it warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This dish is perfect for a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Here are some ideas to take your meal to the next level:
- Fresh Salad: Pair it with a simple, crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition to your plate, perfectly complementing the garlic Parmesan flavor.
- Pasta: Serve it over spaghetti or fettuccine with a light marinara sauce for a hearty meal.
- Garlic Bread: Keep the garlic vibes going with some warm, toasted garlic bread on the side.
Presentation matters, too! A beautifully arranged plate with a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the whole experience.
Additional Tips
- Make Ahead: Prep the breadcrumb mixture and coat the chicken earlier in the day. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, making it a great time-saver for busy nights.
- Crispier Crust: For an even crispier coating, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to preserve the crispy texture.
- Freezing: If you want to make this dish in bulk, you can freeze the breaded chicken breasts before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just bake from frozen—no need to thaw!
- Add Some Spice: Want a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture to kick up the flavor.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
A1: Yes, you can! Just adjust the cooking time, as bone-in chicken will take longer to cook through. Be sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q2: Can I make this with chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A2: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a slightly juicier result. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q3: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A3: You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with ground almonds or crushed rice crackers for the crust.
Q4: Can I freeze the breaded chicken before cooking?
A4: Yes! Simply freeze the breaded chicken on a baking sheet, and once frozen, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen—just increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.
Q5: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A5: The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The chicken is safe to eat once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q6: Can I add extra cheese to the crust?
A6: Yes, if you love cheese, go ahead and add a bit more! Mozzarella or even a sprinkle of cheddar can make it even more decadent.
Q7: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
A7: Absolutely! Just double the amount if you’re using fresh herbs. Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano will add an aromatic touch to the dish.
Q8: Can I make this in an air fryer?
A8: Yes! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the chicken is cooked through.
Q9: How can I keep the crust crispy?
A9: To keep the crust crispy, store the leftovers in a wire rack, not a container, so air can circulate and prevent the crust from getting soggy.
Q10: Can I use a different cheese besides Parmesan?
A10: Yes! You can swap Parmesan for Romano or even Pecorino for a slightly different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the kind of dish that never fails to impress. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with bold flavors that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe has you covered. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and easy to make. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Savor the irresistible flavors of Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This crispy, flavorful dish is sure to become a family favorite and elevate your dinner table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Crust Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Coat the Chicken: Brush each chicken breast with olive oil, ensuring an even coating to help the crust adhere.
- Apply the Parmesan Mixture: Press the Parmesan mixture firmly onto each chicken breast, covering both sides evenly.
- Arrange the Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Bake: Bake for 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- You can substitute the breadcrumbs with panko for an even crispier texture.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference by adding more garlic or herbs.
- For a richer flavor, try using freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 95mg