Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (1/2 stick); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving a dish that combines bold flavors with comforting textures, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken is exactly what your dinner table needs. Juicy chicken breasts get a golden, crispy crust made from a heavenly blend of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian seasoning, all cooked to perfection in rich melted butter. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to become a family favorite at any meal. The garlic and Parmesan elevate this simple chicken dish into something truly special, making every bite a delicious delight.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding savory depth, crisp texture, or fresh vibrant notes. These essentials come together to create a stunningly flavorful dish without any fuss.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (About 1.5 pounds): The perfect protein base that cooks quickly and stays tender.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, salty crust that’s the hallmark of this dish.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Adds a satisfying crunch and helps bind the coating to the chicken.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses an aromatic punch that brightens up every bite.
1/4 cup unsalted butter (1/2 stick): Creates a rich, golden cooking base and keeps the chicken moist.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds warmth and complexity.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat to balance the richness.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens the final presentation with fresh color and a mild herbaceous note.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This simple but important step helps the Parmesan breadcrumb coating stick better, ensuring each piece gets perfectly crispy without slipping off during cooking.

Step 2: Combine the Coating Ingredients

In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend will coat the chicken and form the crust that makes this dish irresistible.

Step 3: Butter Bath and Coating

Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, letting any excess drip off before pressing the chicken into the Parmesan mixture. This ensures an even, flavorful coating that seals in moisture while creating that golden crust.

Step 4: Cook in the Skillet

Place the coated chicken breasts into the skillet and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a rich golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Cooking over medium heat helps the coating crisp up nicely without burning.

Step 5: Let it Rest and Garnish

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute within the meat for maximum tenderness. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, adding a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken alongside your favorite vegetables, pasta, or salad. This dish shines on its own or as part of a hearty, satisfying meal.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Garnishes

Sprinkling fresh parsley on top brightens the dish visually and adds a subtle herbal contrast that complements the rich cheese and garlic. Consider adding a few lemon wedges for an optional zesty twist that some love to squeeze over the top.

Side Dishes

To balance the richness of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken, serve it with light and fresh sides. Steamed green beans or asparagus bring in vibrant color and crunch, while buttery mashed potatoes or creamy risotto provide indulgent comfort food vibes.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Slice the chicken into medallions and fan them on a beautiful plate. Drizzle a touch of extra melted butter or a lemon garlic sauce over the top for added flair. You can also serve it on a bed of garlic spinach or tossed salad for a bright, elegant presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it with care to maintain the crispness of the coating as much as possible by separating the chicken pieces slightly and letting them cool before sealing.

Freezing

If you want to save this dish for longer, you can freeze cooked Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen chicken will keep well for up to 2 months without losing too much flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, avoid the microwave if you want to keep the coating crisp. Instead, warm the chicken in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will revive the golden crust and keep the meat juicy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and tend to retain juiciness well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature.

Is it necessary to use fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic gives the best bright and robust flavor in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken. While garlic powder can work in a pinch, it won’t provide the same aromatic intensity that minced fresh garlic brings.

Can I bake this instead of cooking in a skillet?

Yes, you can bake the chicken if preferred. Place the coated chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown, flipping halfway through.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

Panko breadcrumbs make a great alternative for extra crunch. For a gluten-free option, crushed cornflakes or almond flour can work well, adding a unique texture while still holding the coating together.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Visually, the coating should be golden brown and the juices run clear when cut into.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a recipe that I keep coming back to whenever I want a fuss-free meal that feels like a special treat. Its rich, crispy coating and juicy, flavorful meat make every bite a small celebration. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with the people you love—because some recipes just have that magic touch that turns simple ingredients into unforgettable moments.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 6 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a flavorful garlic and Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pan-seared to a golden brown perfection. It’s a simple yet delicious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, combining the richness of butter and cheese with aromatic herbs for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)

Coating

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking

1/4 cup unsalted butter (1/2 stick)

Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispy crust.
Mix the coating: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the flavors.
Coat the chicken: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, allowing any excess to drip off, then press it into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly.
Cook the chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts in the same skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Rest and garnish: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes to retain juices. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve: Enjoy the Garlic Parmesan Chicken alongside steamed vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad to complete your meal.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is essential for a crispy coating.
For gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
You can substitute shredded mozzarella or other hard cheeses if Parmesan is not available.
Use fresh garlic for best flavor; garlic powder can be a backup but less vibrant.
Resting the chicken after cooking helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Internal temperature should be checked with a meat thermometer to ensure safety.
Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice over chicken before serving for added brightness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-frying
Cuisine: Italian-American