Easy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Crispy, Flavorful Favorite

When you’re craving a quick and delicious chicken recipe, nothing beats the crunch and flavor of Easy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This dish takes just minutes to prepare and delivers a mouthwatering blend of crispy breadcrumbs, savory Parmesan cheese, and fragrant garlic. It’s the perfect main course for a family dinner, a date night at home, or even meal prep for the week.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This recipe combines simplicity with sophistication. The golden-brown crust offers an irresistible crunch, while the tender chicken remains juicy and flavorful. Whether you’re baking it in the oven or pan-frying for extra crispiness, this dish is versatile, beginner-friendly, and packed with rich, comforting flavors.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Here’s everything you need to whip up this irresistible dish:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	4 pieces
Grated Parmesan cheese	½ cup
Breadcrumbs (Panko recommended)	½ cup
Garlic powder	2 tsp
Italian seasoning (optional)	1 tsp
Salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste
Large eggs (beaten)	2
Olive oil (or melted butter, for baking)	2 tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. If the chicken breasts are thick, use a meat tenderizer to pound them to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and quicker preparation.
2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you plan to bake the chicken.

2. Make the Coating

1. In a bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.

3. Coat the Chicken

1. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. Press the chicken into the Parmesan mixture, turning it to coat both sides evenly. For extra crunch, press the coating firmly onto the chicken.

4. Cook the Chicken

For Baking

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Place the coated chicken breasts on the sheet and drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the top for a golden, crispy crust.
3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

For Pan-Frying

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a thin layer of olive oil.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Serve and Garnish

1. Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes to retain its juices.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

1. Use Panko for Extra Crunch

Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, making the crust extra crunchy and delicious.

2. Don’t Skip the Drizzle

Whether you’re baking or frying, a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter enhances the flavor and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.

3. Keep the Coating Even

Shake off any excess egg before dipping the chicken into the Parmesan mixture to ensure a crisp, even coating.

4. Season to Taste

Adjust the salt, pepper, and garlic powder based on your personal preferences for the perfect flavor balance.

5. Test for Doneness

Always use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached 165°F. This ensures it’s fully cooked while remaining juicy.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (serves 4):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	35g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	580mg

Creative Variations

1. Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture for a spicy kick.

2. Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

3. Cheesy Twist

Mix shredded mozzarella or cheddar with the Parmesan for a cheesier crust.

4. Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving for a zesty finish.

5. Herb-Infused Crust

Add fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Easy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken with these sides to create a complete meal:

• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a simple garden salad.
• Carbs: Serve with mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or buttered noodles.
• Sauces: Pair with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a creamy garlic aioli.

Storage and Reheating Tips

1. Refrigeration

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Freezing

Freeze cooked chicken breasts individually wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.

3. Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to restore the crispy crust. Avoid microwaving as it may make the coating soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and may even be juicier. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or a combination of other hard cheeses like Asiago can be used as a substitute.

3. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! Coat the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours before cooking.

4. What if I don’t have Panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs will work, but they won’t give you the same level of crunch as Panko.

5. How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Pat the chicken dry before dipping it into the egg mixture, and press the coating firmly onto the chicken.

6. Can I air-fry this recipe?

Yes! Cook the chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Conclusion

This Easy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a recipe that checks all the boxes: it’s crispy, juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a go-to meal you’ll want to make again and again.

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