If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food that’s practically guaranteed to win over your family and friends, Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the answer you’ve been searching for. This irresistible recipe wraps tender, juicy chicken breasts in a golden coating of savory garlic butter, crispy breadcrumbs, and plenty of bold Parmesan cheese. With a perfect balance of rich flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is a go-to weeknight winner or an easy way to impress company — all while using pantry staples and a speedy prep time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about how simple, familiar ingredients can quickly transform into something downright magical. Each component of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken brings its own deliciousness to the table, whether that’s for flavor, texture, or a pop of color at serving time.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook up tender, making them ideal for soaking up every bit of flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan lends a nutty, salty goodness and helps form a wonderfully crispy crust.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter not only ensures a golden finish, but also carries the garlic flavor deep into the chicken.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses every bite with irresistible aroma and taste — don’t skimp here!
- Italian-Style Breadcrumbs: These add a seasoned crunch, locking in the juiciness of the chicken.
- Salt: Just a touch enhances every single flavor in the dish.
- Black Pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and bite that makes all the difference.
- Dried Italian Seasoning: An easy, aromatic way to boost the herby factor and bring everything together.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds bright color and a fresh finish — special enough for guests, easy enough for any night.
- Nonstick Cooking Spray: Ensures your chicken crisps up beautifully without sticking.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) — this moderate temperature lets the chicken cook through gently while the crust gets perfectly golden. Grab your favorite baking dish and give it a good misting with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, melt your butter and stir in the minced garlic. This fragrant blend is the heart of Garlic Parmesan Chicken, guaranteeing every bite is packed with all the cozy, savory flavors that make this dish so irresistible.
Step 3: Mix the Parmesan Coating
In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, Italian-style breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. This mix will become your chicken’s crispy, cheesy blanket — don’t be afraid to use your fingers to break up any clumps for even coverage.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Breasts
Dip each chicken breast first into the garlic butter, making sure it’s coated from edge to edge. Immediately transfer it to the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, patting gently so the coating sticks and covers every surface. Lay each breast into your prepared baking dish as you go.
Step 5: Drizzle and Bake
Once all chicken pieces are nestled in the dish, drizzle any leftover garlic butter over the top — you don’t want to waste a drop! Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Let the chicken rest for five minutes so the juices can redistribute and the crust stays crispy. Finish with a scattering of fresh chopped parsley if you’d like a lovely, restaurant-worthy touch.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Garnishes
For that final flourish, nothing beats a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese over your Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Both add a pop of color and a little flavor lift, making your finished dish look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with classics like buttered pasta, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad tossed with Italian dressing. If you’re feeling extra cozy, serve alongside roasted veggies or a warm loaf of crusty bread for dipping into the leftover garlic butter.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Garlic Parmesan Chicken into an impressive dinner by slicing it over risotto, tucking pieces into a hearty sandwich with arugula and tomato, or layering slices atop creamy polenta. For a lighter twist, try it cooled and sliced over your favorite Caesar or Italian salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it fantastic for easy, flavor-packed lunches or quick dinners the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, let the cooked chicken cool completely, then wrap each piece tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag. Stored this way, your Garlic Parmesan Chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For best texture, reheat Garlic Parmesan Chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and crispy, about 10-12 minutes. If you’re in a rush, a microwave will do, but a quick stint under the broiler afterward can help restore the crust’s crunch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully here — just keep in mind they may need a few extra minutes in the oven, but you’ll be rewarded with a richer, juicier bite.
What’s the best way to tell when the chicken is done?
The safest and most accurate way is to use a meat thermometer; your Garlic Parmesan Chicken should register 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. The crust will be golden and juices should run clear.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free Italian-style breadcrumbs, and you’re good to go. The rest of the ingredients in Garlic Parmesan Chicken are naturally gluten-free.
How do I make the coating extra crispy?
For the crispiest finish, try broiling the chicken for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it so the crust turns golden-brown without burning.
Can I prep Garlic Parmesan Chicken ahead of time?
You sure can! Assemble the coated chicken breasts a few hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the freshest, crunchiest results.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Chicken has an unbeatable combination of flavors that feels both comforting and exciting — a real crowd-pleaser! Give this recipe a try and see how quickly it disappears from the dinner table. You just might find yourself making it on repeat, and loving it every single time.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a satisfying dinner. Tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful blend of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Coating:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Others:
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Prepare the garlic butter: Mix melted butter and minced garlic in a small bowl.
- Coat the chicken: In another bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dip each chicken breast in the garlic butter, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake: Place the coated chicken in the baking dish, drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the top, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Rest and garnish: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- You can use chicken thighs as a substitute, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
