Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

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Introduction

If you’re looking for a dish that’s golden, crispy, juicy, and packed with irresistible flavor, Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the answer. This recipe takes tender chicken breasts, coats them in a rich garlic and Parmesan crust, and pan-fries or bakes them until perfectly crisp. It’s an easy but luxurious dinner idea that pairs well with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables.

This dish is especially loved because it gives you restaurant-quality flavor right at home with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons butter (for pan-frying)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken:
  • Pat chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
  • Pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch thick) for even cooking.
  1. Set up dredging stations:
  • Bowl 1: Flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
  • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and minced garlic mixed together.
  1. Coat the chicken:
  • Dredge each chicken breast in the flour (shake off excess).
  • Dip into the egg wash.
  • Finally, press firmly into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture so it sticks well.
  1. Cook the chicken:
  • Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Cook chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F / 74°C).
  • If baking: place on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.
  1. Serve:
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and squeeze lemon juice over the top for brightness.

Methods & Variations

  • Air Fryer Method: Cook breaded chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Cheesy Upgrade: Add mozzarella on top in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a cheesy crust.
  • Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of all-purpose flour.

History

The combination of garlic and Parmesan has deep roots in Italian cooking, where cheese and garlic have been paired together for centuries in sauces and crusts. Breaded chicken itself traces back to European cutlet traditions, like the Austrian schnitzel and Italian cotoletta. This modern American twist became popular in home kitchens and restaurants as a flavorful, family-friendly dish that takes comfort food to a gourmet level.

Benefits

  1. Protein-rich: Chicken is a lean source of protein, great for muscle repair and satiety.
  2. Calcium boost: Parmesan cheese adds calcium for bone health.
  3. Heart-healthy fats: Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats.
  4. Customizable: Works with different diets – baked for low-fat, air-fried for crispy without excess oil.
  5. Versatile pairing: Can be served with pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even in a sandwich.

Nutrition (Per serving – approx.)

  • Calories: 380–420
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is crispy, juicy, cheesy, and downright addictive. Whether you serve it as a weeknight dinner with a side salad or dress it up with pasta for date night, it’s guaranteed to win hearts. The garlic-Parmesan combo is timeless, and when you add that crunchy crust, you’ve got a masterpiece on your plate.

Lovers of comfort food and Italian-inspired dishes will especially enjoy this recipe – it’s indulgent, yet simple enough for everyday cooking.

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