Indulge in the savory delight of garlic parmesan chicken, perfect for any dinner table. This dish features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy garlic and parmesan crust, bursting with flavor. It’s easy to make and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Whether for a family meal or a special occasion, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Lemon wedges for serving
– Olive oil for drizzling
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast) contains approximately 350 calories, 22g of fat, 30g of protein, and 2g of carbohydrates. Note that these values may vary based on specific ingredient brands.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
4. Press the buttered chicken breasts into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
5. Place the coated chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet.
6. Drizzle a little olive oil over the chicken for extra crispiness.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
8. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
10. Serve with lemon wedges for an added burst of flavor.
Alternative Ingredients
For a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Garlic parmesan chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside garlic bread or roasted potatoes.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking.
- Skipping the resting time can dry out the chicken.
- Using too much butter can make the dish greasy.
- Not fully coating the chicken in breadcrumbs may result in a less crispy texture.
- Overcooking the chicken will make it tough and dry.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and olive oil for a few hours before cooking.
- Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor.
- Ensure even cooking by pounding the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
How can I make garlic parmesan chicken healthier?
You can make garlic parmesan chicken healthier by using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts and opting for whole wheat breadcrumbs. Additionally, baking instead of frying significantly reduces fat content.
Can I prepare garlic parmesan chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken by coating it in breadcrumbs and storing it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just bake it right before serving.
What can I serve with garlic parmesan chicken?
Garlic parmesan chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a crisp garden salad for a balanced meal.
Can I use frozen chicken?
While it’s best to use fresh chicken for this recipe, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed before coating and baking for even cooking.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check for doneness.
Conclusion
Garlic parmesan chicken is a delicious dish that combines simple ingredients for a rich flavor experience. Its crispy texture and savory aroma make it a favorite for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare and versatile, this recipe will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Press the buttered chicken breasts into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the chicken for extra crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve with lemon wedges for an added burst of flavor.
Nutrition
