Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, garlicky, and cheesy coating. The garlic and Parmesan flavors meld perfectly, creating a savory and aromatic dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s simple to prepare and cooks in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love the rich, savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken is for you. The crispy crust, made with a combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan, contrasts perfectly with the tender chicken inside. The garlic butter sauce that’s drizzled over the top adds an extra layer of flavor that takes this dish from good to unforgettable. It’s an easy, comforting dish that works with just about any side, from mashed potatoes to pasta or a simple salad.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If the chicken breasts are thick, you can butterfly them or gently pound them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
Prepare the breading: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Coat the chicken: Lightly coat each chicken breast in olive oil, then dip it into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs adhere to the chicken.
Bake the chicken: Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C), and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Make the garlic butter sauce: While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat.
Drizzle and serve: Once the chicken is done baking, drizzle the garlic butter sauce over each piece of chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Add lemon: For a fresh twist, squeeze some lemon juice over the chicken after drizzling the garlic butter sauce. You can also zest the lemon and add it to the breadcrumb mixture.
Cheese variation: Swap the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper, tangier flavor.
Herb variations: Experiment with fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil in the breadcrumb mixture for additional flavor.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a touch of heat.
Chicken thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful result.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the same reheating instructions.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work well for this recipe and will add extra juiciness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a bit longer to cook.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

3. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, you can use fresh minced garlic, but garlic powder is easier to incorporate into the breading. If using fresh garlic, you can mix it into the breadcrumb mixture or add it directly to the garlic butter sauce.

4. How can I make the chicken extra crispy?

To get an even crispier crust, you can spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray or drizzle a bit more olive oil before baking.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese for the breading?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, but keep in mind that Parmesan gives the breading its distinct flavor and crunch.

6. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for accuracy.

7. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking. You can also freeze the breaded chicken and bake it later for a convenient meal.

8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini pair wonderfully with Garlic Parmesan Chicken. You can roast them on the same sheet pan while the chicken bakes for a complete meal.

9. Can I cook this chicken on the stovetop instead of baking it?

Yes, you can pan-fry the breaded chicken in a skillet with a bit of olive oil over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through. Be sure to cook it on both sides for about 5-7 minutes per side.

10. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, you can use dairy-free cheese and substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings the rich flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and crispy chicken together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something satisfying and flavorful. Enjoy this classic comfort food with your favorite sides, and watch it become a family favorite!