If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make chicken dinner, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is a perfect choice. The combination of juicy chicken breasts, rich Parmesan cheese, and aromatic garlic creates a satisfying and savory meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Best of all, it requires minimal ingredients and is ready in just 40 minutes!
Ingredients
Before getting started, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- ½ cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking dish (9×13 inch or similar)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
- Basting brush
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Baking Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and develop a delicious golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the oven heats, prepare the chicken breasts. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you may want to pound them gently to an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 3: Make the Parmesan Breadcrumb Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir the ingredients together until they are well blended. This mixture will form the flavorful, crispy coating on the chicken.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic until well combined. The melted butter will act as a base for coating the chicken and will infuse it with garlic flavor.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast into the melted garlic butter, ensuring both sides are well coated. Next, press the butter-coated chicken into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to help the coating stick. Make sure each breast is evenly covered with the cheesy breadcrumbs.
Step 6: Arrange the Chicken in the Baking Dish
Place the coated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. If you have any remaining garlic butter or breadcrumb mixture, you can drizzle or sprinkle it over the top for extra flavor.
Step 7: Bake the Chicken
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If the coating starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve with lemon wedges if desired. The lemon adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the garlic and Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy chicken coating perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the chicken alongside roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy, balanced meal.
- Pasta: Toss some spaghetti in olive oil and garlic for a simple side dish that pairs well with the garlic Parmesan flavors.
- Salad: A light, crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than the pre-packaged variety. It has a more robust, savory taste and melts better during baking.
- Season Well: Don’t skimp on seasoning. Adding salt and pepper to the chicken before coating it ensures that the flavor is well-distributed throughout the dish.
- Check for Doneness: Be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to avoid undercooking. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken; it should be white and no longer pink inside.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you prefer an extra-crispy coating, you can turn the broiler on for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Butter Substitutes: If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute olive oil for the butter. Olive oil provides a lighter, yet equally flavorful coating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can easily substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for breasts. Keep in mind that chicken thighs may require a few extra minutes of cooking time due to their higher fat content.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of the regular breadcrumbs. Everything else remains the same.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
This chicken pairs well with a wide range of sides, from mashed potatoes to pasta, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. You can choose any side that complements the savory garlic and Parmesan flavors.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to retain its crispy texture.
Can I freeze this chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken. After baking, allow the chicken to cool completely, then wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
You can create a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with thick slices of eggplant or zucchini. Follow the same coating and baking instructions for a delicious vegetarian alternative.