Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a flavorful, crispy, and cheesy dish that combines tender chicken with a savory garlic-parmesan crust. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort and pairs beautifully with pasta, salad, or vegetables.

ingredients

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

boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighsgarlic (minced)parmesan cheese (grated)Italian seasoningbreadcrumbs (panko or regular)eggsfloursalt and pepperbutterolive oilfresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.

Pound the chicken to even thickness if needed and season with salt and pepper.

Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and a mix of breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic, and Italian seasoning in the third.

Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and butter.

Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden, then transfer to the baking sheet.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Top with mozzarella and marinara for a chicken parm-style twist.

Use crushed pork rinds for a low-carb version.

Mix fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the breadcrumb coating.

Swap chicken for turkey cutlets or tofu slices.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer to restore crispness.Freezing is possible, but breading may soften slightly upon reheating.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, skip the searing and bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Can I use pre-grated parmesan?

Yes, but freshly grated parmesan melts and flavors better.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Very! The cheesy, crispy coating is usually a hit with kids.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well and stay extra juicy.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Press the breadcrumbs firmly and avoid overcrowding during cooking.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.

What sides go best?

Serve with pasta, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.

Can I air fry it?

Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Do I have to use eggs?

You can substitute with buttermilk or a mixture of mayo and Dijon.

Can I prep it ahead?

Yes, bread the chicken and refrigerate up to 8 hours before cooking.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s easy enough for weeknights but flavorful enough to impress guests. Whether paired with pasta or served on its own, it’s a comforting dish that’s sure to become a staple at your table.