Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 (6-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 4 garlic cloves (minced); ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 30 reviews

If you are looking for a dish that is bursting with bold flavors, simple to prepare, and absolutely irresistible, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are coated in a rich, garlicky mixture of Parmesan cheese and crispy panko breadcrumbs, creating a crust that’s both crunchy and cheesy. Every bite offers a perfect balance of savory garlic, nutty Parmesan, and a hint of herbaceous Italian seasoning, making it an unforgettable meal that feels special enough for company but easy enough for any weeknight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white marbled surface holds eight clear glass bowls of different sizes arranged neatly with ingredients for cooking. On the far right, a large glass bowl contains two raw pale pink chicken breasts with a smooth texture. To its left, a bowl of light yellow breadcrumbs with a slightly coarse texture. Above it, another bowl filled with finely grated pale yellow cheese. Below these bowls, a smaller bowl holds fine, pale breadcrumbs. To the left of the cheese bowl, a small bowl has two sticks of softened pale yellow butter. Above that, a small bottle of golden olive oil with a stopper is placed. Below the butter, a bowl contains three garlic cloves, off-white with a smooth texture. Lastly, the bottom left small bowl holds mixed spices: white salt, black pepper, and a mix of dried herbs in greenish-brown shades. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe plays its role in creating a dish that’s flavorful, textured, and satisfying. From the olive oil that adds moisture and helps seasoning stick, to the fresh garlic that packs a punch, these simple components combine effortlessly for maximum taste.

4 (6-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, these provide the tender, juicy base for the toppings.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and adds a subtle richness.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil brings a warm, earthy flavor that complements the cheese.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth.
4 garlic cloves, minced: The garlic gives the recipe its vibrant, aromatic kick that makes it truly memorable.
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese: This sharp, salty cheese creates a crispy and flavorful crust.
½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides light, crunchy texture to the topping.
2 tablespoons melted butter: Binds the topping ingredients together and helps achieve a golden finish.
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, colorful pop and subtle herbaceous notes.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, which is perfect for cooking the chicken quickly while crisping the topping beautifully. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, then drizzle them with olive oil. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly on both sides of the chicken. This step ensures that your chicken is packed with flavor before hitting the oven.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Topping

In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Stir everything together until it forms a uniform mixture. This aromatic and cheesy blend is what transforms your chicken into a crunchy, irresistible masterpiece.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Press each chicken breast into the garlic Parmesan mixture, making sure both sides are generously coated. To help the topping crisp evenly, place a wire rack on your baking sheet and arrange the coated chicken breasts on top. This setup lets air circulate around the chicken for a perfectly crispy crust.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Juicy

Bake the chicken for 22 to 25 minutes, or until an internal thermometer reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The cheese and panko topping should be crisp, golden, and slightly bubbling, while the chicken remains juicy and tender inside.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe is now ready to delight your taste buds and everyone at your table.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Four raw chicken pieces lay on a silver metal wire rack. Each piece is covered with a crumbly, pale yellow coating that looks like a mix of crumbs and cheese, spread evenly on top. The wire rack is placed on a white marbled surface. The scene looks prepared for baking or cooking. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a splash of vibrant green and a subtle herbal brightness that balances the richness. For an extra touch, shaved Parmesan or a lemon wedge on the side can elevate the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter roasted vegetables complement the savory crust wonderfully. For a lighter option, a crisp garden salad or steamed asparagus provides a nice contrast in texture and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, slice the chicken breasts and fan the pieces out on a platter with some extra Parmesan sprinkled over the top. You might also serve it over a bed of linguine tossed in olive oil and garlic to turn it into a complete Italian-inspired feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, place any leftover garlic Parmesan chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners on busy days.

Freezing

If you want to keep the chicken longer, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and store inside a freezer-safe bag or container. The chicken will keep well for up to 2 months and maintain most of its flavorful goodness when properly reheated.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and the crust regains its crispiness, about 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the topping soggy and the chicken rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used and will offer a juicier, more flavorful result. Just adjust the baking time slightly, checking for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Is it possible to make this recipe without breadcrumbs?

While the breadcrumbs add a lovely crunch, you can substitute crushed crackers or skip them for a less crispy but still delicious dish. Just make sure to keep the Parmesan and garlic for the full flavor impact.

Can I prepare the topping mixture ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the garlic, Parmesan, panko, and melted butter a few hours ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before coating the chicken for best results.

What can I use if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

You can easily make your own blend with dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. Mix equal parts of each herb to mimic an Italian seasoning blend for that authentic flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses panko breadcrumbs which contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, swap the panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers without changing the method.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe has all the qualities of a cherished classic: quick, easy, and ridiculously delicious. Every time I make it, it feels like a little celebration of simple ingredients coming together to deliver big on flavor and texture. I encourage you to try it out—you might just find your new favorite chicken dinner that’s ready to impress with minimal fuss and maximum taste.