If you are craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for any night of the week, this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is a must-try. It combines crispy, golden breadcrumbs infused with fragrant garlic and nutty parmesan cheese to create a heavenly crust that locks in juicy, tender chicken inside. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers a delightful balance of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s quick to make, making it ideal even on busy evenings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and familiar, yet each plays an essential role in creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe. From the sharp tang of fresh parmesan cheese to the crispy crunch of panko breadcrumbs, every component adds flavor, texture, or color that makes this dish truly special.
- 2 large chicken breasts: Sliced thin to cook evenly and stay juicy inside.
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty, and nutty flavor that complements garlic perfectly.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides a light and crispy crust essential for that satisfying crunch.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic depth and bold flavor to the crust.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds freshness and a pop of vibrant green color.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as the glue to help the crust adhere firmly to the chicken.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the egg coat the chicken better and creates the first layer of the crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a subtle, warm heat that balances the dish.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter: Used for frying, giving the chicken a golden, flavorful crust.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This step is key for getting a crispy crust. Then carefully slice each breast horizontally into thinner cutlets, which will cook faster and more evenly.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations
Arrange three shallow bowls: one filled with the seasoned flour (mix the salt and black pepper into the flour), one with the beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. This setup ensures every bite is perfectly coated with flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken cutlet first into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dunk it into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra egg to drip off. Finally, press the cutlet firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat it thoroughly. This triple-layered process is what makes the garlic parmesan crust so irresistibly crispy.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Heat your olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, carefully add the coated chicken cutlets. Cook each side for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through inside. You’ll know they’re ready when the crust is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. If you like, sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top to brighten the dish visually and add a touch of fresh flavor.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a little extra grated parmesan immediately after plating elevates the dish’s appearance and flavor. You can also add a lemon wedge for a zesty pop that cuts through the richness of the crust.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Think crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a truly comforting meal, try serving it alongside garlic butter pasta or steamed asparagus for a hit of color and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the chicken into strips and serve it atop a bed of quinoa or mixed greens for a hearty salad. You can also use the crusted chicken in sandwiches or wraps with arugula and a tangy aioli sauce for an easy lunch option that’s packed with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing to preserve the crust’s texture as much as possible.
Freezing
If you want to save this delicious chicken for the future, freeze the cooked cutlets individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months and make for an easy, quick meal when defrosted.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This method helps maintain the crust’s crispiness better than microwaving, keeping the dish tasty and satisfying.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor. Just be sure to trim excess fat and adjust cooking times slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it necessary to use fresh parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated parmesan offers the best flavor and texture in the crust, giving a nuttier taste and better melting qualities compared to pre-grated, which is often coated with anti-caking agents.
Can I bake this instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a great option for a lighter version. Place the coated chicken on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.
What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work, though the texture won’t be quite as light and crispy. Crushed crackers or cornflakes can also be creative substitutes.
How do I keep the crust from falling off?
Make sure to thoroughly coat the chicken in flour first, then dip in egg, and press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. Letting the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before cooking can also help the crust adhere better.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe enough to anyone looking for a flavorful, crispy, and satisfying meal that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Once you try it, you’ll see why it becomes an instant favorite, perfect for both weekday dinners and special occasions. Give it a go and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a quick and delicious pan-fried dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a savory mixture of Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic, and fresh parsley. Perfectly golden and crispy on the outside while juicy on the inside, this recipe is ideal for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts
Coating
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Cooking
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets, ensuring even cooking and a tender bite.
- Set up dredging stations: In three shallow bowls, place the flour seasoned with salt and pepper; in the second bowl, beat the eggs; and in the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken cutlet first into the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then into the beaten eggs, and lastly press firmly into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture to create an even crust.
- Heat the skillet: Warm the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat, preparing it for frying the chicken.
- Cook the cutlets: Fry the coated chicken cutlets for 4–5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated cheese.
- You can substitute olive oil with butter or a combination of both for richer flavor.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet to maintain a crispy crust on the chicken.
- Chicken can be served with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or pasta for a complete meal.
