Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

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Golden, crispy, and outrageously flavorful, this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect dinner idea when you’re craving something indulgent yet simple. Each bite delivers a juicy burst of perfectly seasoned chicken, coated in a crunchy, cheesy crust that practically sings with garlic and herb goodness. It’s a dish that looks gourmet but comes together in under 30 minutes—making it an ideal choice for easy dinners, cozy weekend meals, or even impressive date nights at home.

Whether you serve it over pasta, with a crisp salad, or alongside buttery mashed potatoes, this chicken becomes the star of the plate. The secret is the parmesan-panko coating, pan-fried to perfection and locking in all the moisture. It’s a savory, cheesy, crunchy masterpiece that’s bound to become one of your go-to comfort food ideas.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• Versatile: Pairs beautifully with pasta, veggies, or salad.
• Family-Approved: Even picky eaters will devour this one.
• Great for Meal Prep: Holds up well in the fridge and reheats like a dream.
• Crispy Texture Without Deep Frying: Pan-fried to golden brown with less oil but maximum crunch.
• Bursting with Flavor: Parmesan, garlic, herbs—what’s not to love?

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

Before you dive into making this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken, setting up your kitchen with the right tools will streamline your cooking and ensure everything turns out just right. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: Essential for trimming and butterflying the chicken breasts evenly so they cook uniformly and stay juicy.
• Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: Helps pound the chicken to an even thickness—this ensures quicker and more even cooking, preventing dry edges.
• Three Shallow Bowls: You’ll use these for a classic dredging station—one for flour, one for egg wash, and one for the garlic-parmesan-panko mix.
• Large Nonstick or Cast-Iron Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet is perfect for pan-frying the chicken evenly and giving it that irresistible golden crust.
• Tongs or Spatula: Needed for flipping the chicken without tearing the crust.
• Paper Towels: Handy for blotting the chicken before breading to help the coating stick better.
• Instant Read Thermometer (optional): To ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature (165°F) without overcooking.

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Preparation Tips

• Pat the Chicken Dry: Removing moisture helps the coating stick better and crisp up nicely.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent the coating from sticking properly.
• Don’t Skip the Garlic: Fresh minced garlic in the breading delivers way more punch than garlic powder.
• Press the Coating Firmly: After dredging, press the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken with your hands to ensure a thick, even crust.
• Let the Coated Chicken Rest: Give it 5–10 minutes before frying to allow the coating to adhere better and reduce the risk of it falling off during cooking.
• Control Your Heat: Medium heat is key—too hot, and the crust burns before the chicken cooks; too low, and it turns soggy instead of crispy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed; this helps maintain even heat and keeps the crust from steaming.

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Ingredients for This Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Here’s everything you need to make this crispy, juicy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (butterflied and pounded to even thickness)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon milk or water (to loosen the egg wash)

For the Crust:

• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and warmth)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

For Cooking:

• 2–3 tablespoons olive oil (or a mix of olive oil and butter for extra flavor)

Optional Garnish:

• Lemon wedges
• Extra chopped parsley
• Shaved Parmesan

Make sure to use fresh and good-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture—especially the garlic and Parmesan, as they’re the stars of this recipe.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, then pound to an even ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
• Pat dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

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Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station

• In the first shallow bowl, place the flour.
• In the second bowl, whisk the eggs with 1 tablespoon of milk or water.
• In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, and chopped parsley.

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Step 3: Bread the Chicken

• Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off the excess.
• Dip into the egg wash, coating it fully.
• Press firmly into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to set the crust.

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Step 4: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
• Place the chicken in the pan (don’t overcrowd). Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Add more oil if needed between batches.

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Step 5: Rest and Slice

• Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

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Step 6: Serve and Garnish

• Slice into strips, garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if desired.
• Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.

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Notes

• Make It Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour and panko for gluten-free alternatives. Almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs both work well.
• Cheese Variations: If you like a sharper flavor, try adding a bit of Pecorino Romano along with the Parmesan.
• Customize the Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can be added to the breadcrumb mixture for a unique twist.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting and browning. Freshly grated cheese is essential for texture and taste.
• Skipping the Resting Time After Breading: Letting the chicken rest before frying helps the coating stick and prevents it from falling apart in the pan.
• Crowding the Pan: This causes the oil temperature to drop, leading to soggy crust instead of a crispy golden coating. Always fry in batches if needed.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Once it hits 165°F internally, take it off the heat. Overcooking will dry it out.
• Cooking Over High Heat: Too high, and the crust will burn before the inside cooks through. Medium heat gives the best crust-to-cooked ratio.
• Not Drying the Chicken: Any surface moisture makes it harder for the coating to stick, so pat the chicken dry thoroughly before dredging.

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What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

This dish is rich, savory, and satisfying on its own—but it becomes unforgettable when paired with the right sides. Whether you’re going for comfort food vibes or a lighter plate, here are some tasty suggestions.

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Butter Pasta
   Toss cooked spaghetti or fettuccine in garlic butter and a sprinkle of Parmesan—simple and perfect.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons bring a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken.
3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
   A classic pairing. The creamy texture balances the crunch of the chicken.
4. Roasted Vegetables
   Try a medley of carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers with olive oil and herbs.
5. Buttered Green Beans
   Lightly steamed or sautéed green beans add color and a clean, crisp bite.
6. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil with balsamic glaze elevate the whole meal.
7. Lemon Herb Rice
   A light, zesty rice side that complements the garlicky richness of the chicken.
8. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
   Their sweetness and soft texture make an awesome contrast to the crunchy, cheesy crust.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. To maintain the crispiness, place a paper towel under the chicken in the container to absorb moisture.

Freezer:
You can freeze Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken after it’s cooked. Let it cool completely, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 8–10 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the coating soggy.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~410 kcal
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast cutlet
• Category: Dinner / Main Dish
• Diet: High-Protein
• Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
• Method: Pan-Fried

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1. Can I bake this instead of frying?

Yes! For a lighter option, bake the breaded chicken at 425°F (220°C) on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray the top with cooking oil and bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.

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2. What’s the difference between panko and regular breadcrumbs?

Panko is a Japanese-style breadcrumb that’s flakier and lighter, resulting in a crispier, crunchier coating. Regular breadcrumbs are finer and absorb more oil, so for this recipe, panko is preferred for the best texture.

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3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and stay extra juicy. Just be sure to flatten them slightly for even cooking.

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4. Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all. It’s flavorful and savory, but not spicy. Want a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the breadcrumb mix.

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5. Can I prep this in advance?

Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 6 hours before cooking. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before frying.

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6. What oil is best for frying?

Use light olive oil, canola, or vegetable oil. Avoid butter alone—it can burn quickly. A mix of butter and oil adds flavor but keeps the smoke point stable.

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7. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The crust should be deep golden brown, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Using an instant-read thermometer helps avoid guesswork.

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8. How do I make it more cheesy?

Double the Parmesan in the breadcrumb mixture or sprinkle extra cheese on top while it’s still hot. You can even melt a slice of mozzarella over it for a cheesy twist.

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Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken brings together all the best flavors—crispy, cheesy, garlicky, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that looks fancy but comes together with everyday ingredients in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, it never disappoints. Keep this one in your rotation, and don’t be surprised when it becomes your most requested recipe.

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