Contents
- 1 Juicy, Crispy, and Bursting with Flavor
- 2 Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- 3 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 Step-by-Step Instructions
- 5 Serving Suggestions
- 6 Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- 7 Variations and Add-Ons
- 8 Nutrition Information (per serving approximate)
- 9 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 10 Why Make Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tonight?
- 11 Bonus: How to Make Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes (Perfect Side!)
Juicy, Crispy, and Bursting with Flavor
Who says weeknight dinners need to be complicated? These Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken breasts deliver crispy, golden, and flavorful bites in just 30 minutes. With a buttery, garlicky crust and a tender juicy center, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any family dinner.
Perfectly paired with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad, this chicken recipe is a versatile and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s free from pork, bacon, wine, or alcohol — making it suitable for halal diets and anyone seeking a wholesome dinner option.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Quick and easy — ready in just 30 minutes
Juicy inside, crispy outside — thanks to the parmesan garlic crust
Family-friendly — everyone loves it!
Versatile — pairs well with many sides
No complicated ingredients — uses pantry staples
Halal-friendly — no pork or alcohol
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs | 4 pieces (about 1.5 lbs) | Thighs are juicier; breasts for leaner |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup | Freshly grated for best flavor |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Enhances garlic flavor |
| Minced fresh garlic | 2 cloves | Adds fresh aroma and taste |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Optional but recommended |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | |
| Olive oil or melted butter | 3 tbsp | For brushing the crust |
| Panko breadcrumbs | ¾ cup | For extra crunch |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tbsp | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels — this helps the crust stick better. Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Garlic Parmesan Crust
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and minced fresh garlic. Mix well.
3. Coat the Chicken
Brush the chicken breasts or thighs with olive oil or melted butter generously on both sides. Press the chicken firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly, pressing so the crust sticks well.
4. Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once hot, place the chicken in the skillet.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
5. Rest and Serve
Remove chicken from the pan and let rest for a few minutes to lock in juices. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy mashed potatoes: The buttery smoothness pairs perfectly with crispy chicken.
Roasted vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or green beans roasted with olive oil and garlic complement the flavors.
Simple salad: Fresh greens with a lemon vinaigrette lighten the meal.
Garlic bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter to soak up any extra flavors.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Use fresh Parmesan cheese: Pre-grated cheese often has additives that can prevent proper crusting.
Don’t skip patting dry the chicken: Moisture hinders crispiness.
Press firmly when coating: Ensures the crust adheres throughout cooking.
Cook over medium heat: Too high heat burns crust; too low prevents browning.
Let the chicken rest: Keeps the meat juicy and tender.
Variations and Add-Ons
Add lemon zest to crust for a bright, citrusy twist.
Use smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.
Top with fresh mozzarella and basil for an Italian flair.
Try with turkey cutlets for a leaner alternative.
Make it gluten-free: Substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
Nutrition Information (per serving approximate)
Calories: 350-400
Protein: 45g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs stay juicier and often have more flavor, though they may take a little longer to cook.
Can I bake this instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely! Preheat oven to 400°F and bake coated chicken on a greased baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and crust is golden.
What sides go best with garlic parmesan chicken?
Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, steamed rice, or fresh salads are excellent options.
Can I prepare the crust mixture in advance?
Yes, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Fresh garlic is best added just before coating.
Is this recipe halal?
Yes, since it uses no pork, bacon, wine, or alcohol, it is halal-friendly.
Why Make Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tonight?
This recipe hits all the marks for a quick, comforting, and flavorful dinner. The crispy crust provides texture and taste while keeping the chicken moist inside. It’s an ideal way to elevate a simple chicken dinner with minimal effort.
Bonus: How to Make Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes (Perfect Side!)
Ingredients
4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tbsp butter
½ cup milk or cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives or parsley (optional)
Instructions
Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
Drain and mash with butter, milk, and garlic until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper, garnish with herbs.
Serve warm alongside your garlic parmesan crusted chicken.
Elevate your dinner routine with this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe — juicy, crispy, and irresistibly flavorful in just 30 minutes. A perfect family meal that’s easy, quick, and utterly delicious!
