Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Parmesan Garlic Chicken is a classic comfort dish elevated with flavors. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are coated in a savory Parmesan-garlic crust and baked to golden perfection. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs creates a crispy, flavorful exterior while keeping the chicken moist and succulent on the inside. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for guests.

Irresistible Parmesan Garlic Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Make Parmesan Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Coat Chicken: Brush chicken breasts lightly with melted butter and minced garlic. Press each breast into the Parmesan-panko mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Bake: Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for extra crispiness. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Twist: Add shredded mozzarella on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for extra cheesy goodness.
Spicy Version: Add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture.
Herb-Infused: Mix fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil into the breadcrumb mixture for more aromatic flavor.
Air Fryer: Cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes for a crispier crust.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to maintain the crisp crust. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs work well and may remain even juicier.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of panko.

3. Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, coat the chicken and refrigerate until ready to bake.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

5. Can I add more garlic flavor?

Yes, you can increase the minced garlic in the butter mixture or add garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture.

6. Can I cook it on the stovetop instead of baking?

Yes, sear the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through.

7. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, substitute Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use olive oil instead of butter.

8. Can I use fresh Parmesan cheese?

Yes, freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture.

9. Can I make it crispier?

Yes, lightly toast the panko mixture in a dry pan before coating the chicken for extra crunch.

10. What sides pair well with this dish?

It pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Irresistible Parmesan Garlic Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that’s bursting with flavor. The crispy Parmesan crust, infused with garlic and herbs, pairs beautifully with tender, juicy chicken. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Chef MARTHA