Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside – that’s the magic of this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe. It’s a simple, yet sophisticated dish that’s guaranteed to become a new family favorite. With a perfectly seasoned Parmesan and garlic crust, this chicken delivers big, bold flavors in every bite.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a showstopping dinner party entrée, this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken ticks all the boxes. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and bound to impress everyone at the table.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a total flavor powerhouse. The combination of savory Parmesan, aromatic garlic, and a hint of lemon creates a delectable crust that perfectly complements the juicy, tender chicken beneath. The textural contrast between the crispy exterior and the moist, flavorful interior is simply irresistible.
What’s more, this recipe is incredibly accessible, with most of the ingredients being pantry or freezer staples. And the best part? It can be prepared ahead of time, making it the perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Simply bake the chicken and reheat it when you’re ready to serve – it’s that easy!
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken ❓
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of savory Parmesan, aromatic garlic, and a hint of lemon creates the Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile that has made chicken parmesan recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Step 3: Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Generously press the Parmesan-garlic mixture onto the chicken, fully coating the top and sides.
• Step 4: Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
• Step 5: Remove the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 35-40 minutes
Compared to traditional chicken parmesan which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken saves you 25% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 39g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 629mg
These Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken breasts provide approximately 78% of your daily protein requirements and 28% of your daily sodium needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Omit the breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead for a keto-friendly adaptation.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan-style cheese.
• Added protein: Top the chicken with chopped nuts, seeds, or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Serve the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken alongside roasted or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair the chicken with a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for a complete, well-balanced meal.
• Complement the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken with a light, refreshing tomato and cucumber salad for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
• For a casual gathering, serve the chicken on a platter alongside garlic bread, roasted red peppers, and a selection of dipping sauces like pesto or balsamic reduction.
• Create an impressive appetizer or party platter by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and arranging them with toothpicks or small forks.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Undercooking the chicken: Be sure to bake the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked through and safe to consume.
• Skipping the resting period: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy final product.
• Using low-quality Parmesan: For the best flavor and texture, use a high-quality, freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than the pre-grated variety.
• Not seasoning the chicken adequately: Be generous with the salt and pepper to ensure the chicken is well-seasoned throughout.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken breasts retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the chicken as directed, but do not bake. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing baked: Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then wrap individual portions in foil or plastic wrap. Place in an airtight container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the chicken is heated through.
❓ FAQs
Can I prepare the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for make-ahead preparation. You can coat the chicken in the Parmesan-garlic mixture, place it on a baking sheet, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake the chicken as directed.
Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese with another type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan provides a lovely savory, umami flavor, you can experiment with other hard, aged cheeses like Asiago, Romano, or even a blend of cheeses. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may vary slightly depending on the cheese you choose.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
Yes, with a few simple modifications, this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken can be adapted for a low-carb or keto diet. Instead of traditional breadcrumbs, use almond flour or crushed pork rinds to create the crunchy coating. You can also substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free, keto-friendly alternative, such as nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan-style cheese.
What can I do if the crust doesn’t get crispy?
If the crust isn’t as crispy as you’d like, try a few troubleshooting tips: make sure to pat the chicken dry before coating, use freshly grated Parmesan (the pre-grated variety can have a lower fat content), and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. You can also try broiling the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to help crisp up the crust.
Can I add any additional seasonings or herbs to the Parmesan crust?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices. Some tasty additions could include dried basil, Italian seasoning, lemon zest, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. Just be mindful of the quantities to ensure the Parmesan and garlic flavors remain the star of the show.
Conclusion
These Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken breasts represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a weeknight family dinner or a sophisticated entrée for a special occasion, they’re sure to impress with their crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy, tender interior. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken breasts demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the baking process. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious, crowd-pleasing results?
Print
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Step 3: Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Generously press the Parmesan-garlic mixture onto the chicken, fully coating the top and sides.
• Step 4: Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
• Step 5: Remove the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
