Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken: 5-Ingredient Dinner Magic

Introduction

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner with minimal ingredients, Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect solution. This crispy, flavorful chicken recipe is made with just five simple ingredients and takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

This recipe delivers crispy, golden-brown chicken with a savory garlic-Parmesan coating that locks in moisture, ensuring every bite is juicy and packed with flavor. Plus, it pairs well with just about any side dish!

The Story Behind Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

The inspiration behind this recipe comes from classic Italian and American flavors. Parmesan cheese has long been used in Italian cuisine to add richness and depth, while garlic is a staple ingredient that enhances any savory dish. This recipe was created as a simple yet flavorful take on traditional breaded chicken that doesn’t require a long list of ingredients or complicated steps.

Many home cooks love this dish because it mimics the taste of restaurant-style chicken without the need for deep frying. The crispiness of the Parmesan coating combined with the garlic’s aromatic flavor creates a mouthwatering experience that’s both comforting and gourmet.

For busy parents, this dish became a household favorite due to its quick preparation time and kid-friendly appeal. Kids love the crunchy texture, and adults appreciate the robust flavors. Over the years, variations of this dish have popped up in different cuisines, each adding its unique twist with herbs, spices, or even different types of cheese.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a tried-and-true winner that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Only 5 simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Crispy & Flavorful: The Parmesan crust creates the perfect crunch.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love it!
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Pairs Well with Everything: Serve with pasta, salad, or veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredient	Quantity
Boneless chicken breasts	2 large
Grated Parmesan cheese	1/2 cup
Garlic powder	1 tsp
Breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian)	1/2 cup
Eggs	2
Salt & pepper	To taste
Olive oil (for cooking)	2 tbsp

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Coating

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs.
2. In another bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

1. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides.
2. Press the chicken into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the coated chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

• Let the chicken rest for 2 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Use Thin Chicken Breasts: Thinner cuts cook faster and more evenly.
• For Extra Crunch: Use Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Oven-Baked Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping once.
• Add More Flavor: Mix in Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for extra taste.

Delicious Side Dishes to Serve

Wondering what to serve with Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken? Here are some great options:

Starches:

• Garlic butter pasta
• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted sweet potatoes

Vegetables:

• Steamed broccoli
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Sautéed zucchini

Salads:

• Classic Caesar salad
• Greek salad with feta
• Spinach and arugula with balsamic dressing

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	380 kcal
Protein	42g
Carbohydrates	10g
Fat	18g
Sodium	520mg
Fiber	1g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will be juicier but may need an extra 2-3 minutes of cooking time.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze it?

Yes! Freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until warm.

How do I reheat it without losing crispiness?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.

Conclusion

With just five ingredients and a simple cooking process, Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a must-try recipe for any home cook. It’s crispy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile, making it a go-to meal for busy nights.