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Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Crispy, Garlicky Weeknight Winner

If you’re scrolling for a recipe that feels fancy but actually takes less time than a grocery run, Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is your new best friend. This garlicky, golden-crusted chicken checks all the boxes: quick, comforting, picky-eater approved, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something that tastes like a treat without the fuss.

I’m Anna, and along with my sister Patricia, we love turning simple pantry staples into meals that feel special. This garlic parmesan chicken came from one of those evenings when I needed dinner on the table fast but wanted everyone to “ooh” and “ahh” anyway. Spoiler: they did.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Ready in about 30–40 minutes from start to finish.
• Uses everyday ingredients: garlic, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, a little butter/oil, and chicken breasts.
• Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside — a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
• Flexible: oven-bake or pan-sear then finish in the oven. Great with pasta, salad, or roasted veggies.

If you enjoy bold, garlicky flavors, you might also like my twist on comfort classics—try these garlic butter chicken balls with creamy parmesan pasta for another cozy option: Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 lb total)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (Panko gives extra crunch)
• 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra punch)
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (plus a little extra for the pan)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Optional but lovely:

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika for color and subtle warmth
• 1/4 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs mixed with Panko for extra texture

Substitutions and pantry swaps (quick notes)

• Want gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Out of Parmesan? Pecorino Romano works, but shave down the salt elsewhere.
• No fresh garlic? Use 1 teaspoon garlic powder plus a pinch more if you like it garlicky.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20–25 minutes | Serves 4

1. Preheat and prep

   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it, or use a wire rack on a baking sheet to help the crust stay crisp.

2. Pound or butterfly the chicken

   • If the breasts are unevenly thick, lay them between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to about 1/2-inch thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.

3. Season the chicken

   • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Remember: Parmesan is salty, so don’t go overboard on the salt.

4. Make the Parmesan crust

   • In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder (if using), minced garlic, chopped parsley, and paprika (if using). Stir to combine. Drizzle in 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter and mix until the crumbs are moistened — this helps create a golden crust.

5. Prepare the egg wash

   • In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs with milk until smooth. This keeps the crust sticking and gives a nice seal.

6. Dredge the chicken

   • Dip each chicken breast into the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then press into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides well. Press firmly so the crust adheres.

7. Cook (two options)

   • Oven-only (simplest): Place the crusted breasts on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Bake at 425°F for 18–22 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the crust is golden.
   • Pan-sear then oven-finish (extra-crispy): Heat a tablespoon of oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 2 minutes per side until golden. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake at 425°F for 10–12 minutes, until cooked through.

8. Rest and serve

   • Let the chicken rest 3–5 minutes before slicing. Serve with lemon wedges for brightness. A squeeze of lemon really elevates garlic parmesan chicken.

Serving Suggestions

• With a simple arugula salad and roasted tomatoes for a light, weeknight dinner.
• Over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered pasta for pure comfort.
• Slice thin and tuck into a sandwich with lettuce and tomato.
• For a family-friendly combo, pair with roasted broccoli or a quick stovetop green beans sauté.

Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tips (aka little things that make a big difference)

• Panko vs. regular breadcrumbs: Panko gives a lighter, flakier crunch. If you only have regular crumbs, mix in a few crushed crackers for texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If baking, give each breast a little space. Crowding traps steam and can soften the crust.
• Freshly grated Parmesan vs. pre-grated: Freshly grated melts and browns better. Pre-grated is fine in a pinch but can be dustier.
• Make it ahead: Coat the chicken and place on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s a great short-cut for busy evenings.
• For extra garlic punch: Mix a teaspoon of roasted garlic into the butter or oil you drizzle into the breadcrumb mix.

A short (true) kitchen story
One Friday evening, Patricia and I had sworn off takeout after a week of late-night baking experiments. I grabbed chicken, garlic, and the usual suspects. By the time the kids came home, the house smelled like a cozy Italian bistro, and everyone — yes, even the notoriously picky middle child — declared it “restaurant-level.” From then on, this garlic parmesan chicken became our little victory dish when life went sideways and dinner needed to be both quick and impressive.

Quick Variations

• Lemon-Herb: Add lemon zest and extra parsley to the crust for a bright twist.
• Spicy Kick: Mix 1/2 teaspoon cayenne into the crumbs, or serve with a spicy mayo.
• Cheesy Melt: Top with a thin slice of mozzarella for the last 3 minutes of baking and broil quickly to melt.

FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely. Boneless thighs will be juicier and slightly shorter to cook. Treat them similarly but check for doneness around 165°F.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes to keep the crust crisp — avoid the microwave if you want crunch.

Q: Can I freeze this?
A: You can freeze cooked, cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven, covered for 20–30 minutes, then uncover to crisp.

Q: Is there a dairy-free version?
A: Try nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan and use a dairy-free butter or olive oil. Texture and flavor will differ but still tasty.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes — use gluten-free Panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. The cooking times remain the same.

Pairings and Sides for Busy Nights
If you want a full menu without a hassle, pair this garlic parmesan chicken with:

• Garlic roasted asparagus or green beans.
• A quick Caesar or mixed greens salad.
• Herbed rice or simple buttered noodles — especially easy if you have picky kids.

Want another garlic-and-Parmesan crowd-pleaser? Try my comforting garlic parmesan chicken meatloaves for a family-style option that disappears fast: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves.

Final notes for the busy cook
This is one of those recipes that makes the whole kitchen smell like you spent hours prepping, when really you spent half an hour and a lot of love. It’s perfect for the nights you want something elevated but realistic. And if you find yourself short on time, remember: a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of extra parsley go a long way in making it look (and taste) like a pro made it.

Conclusion

If you’re craving a comfort meal that’s both quick and delicious, Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken delivers the crispy, garlicky goodness you want for a weeknight dinner. For more baked Parmesan-style inspiration, check out this tasty take from Our Salty Kitchen: Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken – Our Salty Kitchen and another solid version over at The Cooking Jar: Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken – The Cooking Jar. Give it a try tonight — grab your garlic, crank the oven, and let the kitchen do the cheering.

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Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights. Quick, easy, and delicious—crispy, garlicky comfort in about 30 minutes!