Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Who doesn’t love the combination of garlic and parmesan? These two ingredients elevate any dish, especially when combined with tender, juicy chicken. Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. The crispy crust, savory flavor, and juicy interior will leave everyone wanting more. But what truly sets this dish apart is how easy it is to prepare while still delivering gourmet-level taste. So, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just craving something delicious, this recipe is a must-try!

What is Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a savory dish that features chicken coated in a mixture of garlic, parmesan, and often breadcrumbs, then baked until crispy and golden. It’s a lighter alternative to fried chicken, but still provides that satisfying crunch and flavor. The combination of fresh garlic and grated parmesan cheese creates a robust flavor that’s hard to resist.

Compared to other baked chicken recipes, this one stands out due to the rich, cheesy coating and aromatic garlic infusion. It’s perfect for those who enjoy strong flavors without the heaviness of fried food.

The Benefits of Baking Chicken

Baking chicken is not only healthier than frying, but it also allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through. When you bake chicken, you’re avoiding the excess oil and fat that comes with frying, making it a leaner meal option. Plus, baking is a hands-off cooking method, freeing you up to prepare side dishes or relax while the chicken cooks.

The even cooking temperature in the oven ensures that your chicken is cooked thoroughly without drying out. This makes baking an ideal method for recipes like this one.

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice. They cook evenly, and their mild flavor allows the garlic and parmesan to truly stand out. However, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful alternative.

If you prefer bone-in chicken, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is cooked through. Boneless cuts are quicker to bake and easier to eat, making them a popular choice for weeknight meals.

Garlic and Parmesan: The Perfect Duo

The combination of garlic and parmesan is a classic pairing in the culinary world. Garlic’s pungent, slightly spicy flavor balances the creamy, nutty taste of parmesan cheese. When baked together, they form a crust that’s bursting with flavor while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Garlic is known for its strong, aromatic qualities, while parmesan cheese adds richness to the dish. This duo complements each other perfectly, making the dish flavorful and satisfying.

Preparation Steps

Before you start baking, it’s essential to prepare your chicken properly to ensure maximum flavor.

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and ensures a juicy result.
2. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. The marinade infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it moist during baking.

Seasoning the Chicken

Getting the seasoning right is key to making this dish a standout. After marinating, coat the chicken with a mixture of grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, and paprika. The breadcrumbs add texture, while the parmesan melts into a delicious, golden crust. Be generous with the garlic to ensure each bite is packed with flavor.

Baking Instructions

To bake your garlic parmesan chicken to perfection:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. For extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning.

Tips for a Crispy Finish

Achieving a crispy, golden crust without frying is possible by using a combination of breadcrumbs or panko and parmesan. The panko gives a light, airy crunch, while the parmesan melts to form a savory crust. Don’t forget to lightly spray the chicken with olive oil before baking to help the crust crisp up in the oven.

Side Dishes to Serve with Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Some great options include:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts
• A light Caesar salad to complement the rich flavors of the chicken
• Buttered pasta or rice for a simple, comforting side dish

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain its crispiness. For longer storage, freeze the chicken for up to 3 months.

Variations of Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This recipe is highly customizable. You can add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or fresh basil for a Mediterranean twist. If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the parmesan mixture. For a lower-carb version, you can skip the breadcrumbs and rely on parmesan alone for the crust.

Health Benefits of Garlic and Parmesan

Garlic is packed with antioxidants and has been shown to boost the immune system, while parmesan cheese is a great source of calcium and protein. When combined with lean chicken, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, delicious, and healthier alternative to fried chicken! Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is packed with flavor, with its crispy, cheesy crust and tender, juicy interior. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and make it your own by experimenting with different herbs and seasonings!

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. What other cheeses can I use if I don’t have parmesan? Romano or Asiago cheese can be used as alternatives to parmesan.
3. Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute.
4. How can I make this dish dairy-free? Substitute the parmesan with nutritional yeast and use a dairy-free breadcrumb alternative.
5. Can I grill instead of bake? Yes, grilling the chicken will add a smoky flavor, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and use a grill-safe tray for the cheese topping.
   Yield: 4

   Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

   

   Print

   Who doesn’t love the combination of garlic and parmesan? These two ingredients elevate any dish, especially when combined with tender, juicy chicken. Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. The crispy crust, savory flavor, and juicy interior will leave everyone wanting more. But what truly sets this dish apart is how easy it is to prepare while still delivering gourmet-level taste. So, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just craving something delicious, this recipe is a must-try!

   Prep Time 10 minutes

   Cook Time 30 minutes

   Ingredients

   • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
   • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
   • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian-style)
   • 4 cloves garlic, minced
   • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
   • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
   • 1 teaspoon dried basil
   • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
   • Salt and pepper, to taste
   • 1/4 cup melted butter
   • 2 tablespoons olive oil

   Instructions

   1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
      
   2. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
      
   3. Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a shallow dish, mix the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, oregano, basil, paprika, and fresh parsley (if using). Stir until combined.
      
   4. Prepare the butter-oil mixture: In another shallow dish, combine the melted butter and olive oil.
      
   5. Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the butter-oil mixture, ensuring it is well-coated. Then press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, covering it evenly with the garlic-Parmesan mixture.
      
   6. Bake the chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking dish or sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
      
   7. Let it rest: Remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

   Notes

   For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.

   Feel free to substitute boneless thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier option.

   Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.

   Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.