Garlic and Parmesan Chicken

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Tender, juicy chicken coated in golden breadcrumbs and oven-baked to crispy perfection, all with a burst of garlic and a rich Parmesan crust. Garlic and Parmesan Chicken is the ultimate comfort dish that feels like a guilty pleasure but is simple enough to make on a weeknight.

This dish comes together quickly with pantry staples, making it a go-to for busy nights. Whether served over pasta, tucked into sandwiches, or enjoyed with a fresh salad, every bite is flavorful and satisfying. You’ll love the savory aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes and the crunchy texture paired with tender meat.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic and Parmesan Chicken

Garlic and Parmesan Chicken brings together a few humble ingredients that create something truly delicious. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and loaded with flavor. No need for deep-frying or a long ingredient list. You can make it ahead, meal-prep it, or enjoy leftovers cold. It also pairs well with just about anything, making it incredibly versatile.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs will be juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs are thicker and fattier, but the flavor is fantastic. Bone-in or boneless both work, just keep in mind that boneless cooks faster.

Ingredients for the Garlic and Parmesan Chicken

This dish leans on bold yet simple ingredients. Every component has a purpose: flavor, texture, or moisture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken breasts – Boneless and skinless, these provide a lean, protein-rich base that turns beautifully golden when baked.

Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is best for that sharp, nutty flavor and to help create that crispy coating.

Garlic – Minced fresh garlic adds depth and a rich, savory punch to the breading mix.

Breadcrumbs – Panko or Italian-style crumbs give that crisp exterior everyone loves.

Butter – Melted butter helps the coating stick and adds richness as it bakes.

Salt and pepper – The basics, but essential for seasoning the chicken properly.

Italian seasoning – A mix of herbs like oregano and basil bring in that classic flavor.

How To Make the Garlic and Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F. If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Pat dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Coating

In a shallow bowl, combine grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. In a separate bowl, melt the butter.

Step 3: Dredge and Coat

Dip each piece of chicken into the melted butter, coating it fully. Then press it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure both sides are covered. Place the coated chicken on a lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crisp and golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving and Storing Garlic and Parmesan Chicken

This dish serves 4 and works beautifully for both dinner and leftovers. You can slice it and serve over salad for lunch the next day or reheat it in the oven to maintain that crispy edge. To store, place cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For freezing, wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Garlic and Parmesan Chicken?

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The richness of the potatoes complements the savory crunch of the chicken perfectly.

Roasted Asparagus

A light, green side with a touch of char balances out the richness of the chicken.

Caesar Salad

Crisp lettuce and tangy dressing pair beautifully with Parmesan-forward flavors.

Garlic Butter Pasta

If you’re going for comfort, this simple pasta coated in butter and garlic echoes the flavors in the chicken.

Honey Glazed Carrots

Adds a subtle sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory profile.

Herbed Rice Pilaf

Light and fluffy, the herbs in the rice bring out the Italian seasoning in the chicken.

Fresh Baked Dinner Rolls

Use them to mop up any buttery, garlicky crumbs left on the plate.

Grilled Zucchini

A smoky, low-carb option that keeps things light and summery.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If Garlic and Parmesan Chicken is your kind of dinner, you won’t want to miss these delicious recipes:

• One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
• Best Chicken and Rice Casserole
• Cheesy Chicken Fritters
• Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon
• Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta Salad

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a dash of chili flakes? Or swap in pecorino instead of Parmesan?

I love hearing your kitchen experiments. Share your tweaks, questions, or serving tips.

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