Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This garlic chicken features tender chicken breasts coated in a crisp, golden Parmesan breadcrumb crust, infused with warm garlic flavor, and baked to perfection for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed (or finely minced for stronger flavor)
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup dried bread crumbs
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (5–6 oz each)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (adds herb flavor)
- 1/2 tsp paprika (adds warm color)
- 1–2 tsp lemon zest (brightens the crust)
- Fresh parsley (for serving)
- Lemon wedges (for squeezing at the table)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Lightly oil or spray a shallow baking dish (or line a sheet pan with parchment).
- If chicken breasts are thick on one end, pound lightly to even thickness (about 3/4 inch). This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
Mixing / Assembling
- In a small saucepan, warm the olive oil and crushed garlic over low heat for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant.
- Don’t let the garlic brown—browned garlic can taste bitter.
- Pour the garlic oil into a shallow dish.
- In a second shallow dish, mix bread crumbs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper (add optional seasonings here if using).
Cooking / Baking
- Dip each chicken breast into the garlic oil, turning to coat lightly.
- Press chicken into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, coating well on both sides.
- Place chicken in the baking dish, leaving space between pieces.
- Bake 25–30 minutes, or until the coating is lightly golden and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
Resting / Finishing
- Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before slicing—this helps keep juices inside.
- Serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley if desired.
Notes
Press the coating firmly onto the chicken so it bakes into a sturdy crust. Even thickness + thermometer = perfect results. Avoid overbaking—pull it as soon as it hits 165°F.