If you are looking for a quick, foolproof chicken dinner that turns out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is exactly what you need. With simple pantry ingredients, minimal prep time, and big Italian-inspired flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Tender chicken breasts are coated in a garlicky olive oil mixture, covered with Parmesan and seasoned breadcrumbs, and baked until golden brown. The result? A beautifully crisp crust with moist, flavorful chicken inside.
Serve it with pasta, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- No frying required
- Crispy, golden Parmesan crust
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a closer look at the simple ingredients that make this recipe so delicious:
1. Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
Helps the coating stick to the chicken and adds moisture and richness.
2. Garlic (1 clove, minced)
Fresh garlic gives bold, savory flavor. It blends beautifully with Parmesan.
3. Dry Bread Crumbs (1 cup)
Creates that crispy outer coating. You can use regular or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
4. Grated Parmesan Cheese (â…” cup)
Adds a nutty, salty flavor and helps create a golden crust while baking.
5. Dried Basil (1 teaspoon)
Brings a mild Italian flavor that complements the garlic and cheese.
6. Ground Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon)
Adds gentle heat and balances the richness.
7. Chicken Breasts (6 skinless, boneless halves)
Lean, tender, and perfect for baking. Try to use evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
Step-by-Step Method
Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked garlic Parmesan chicken:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Oil
In a bowl, mix together:
- Olive oil
- Minced garlic
Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Mix the Coating
In a separate bowl, combine:
- Bread crumbs
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Dried basil
- Black pepper
Mix until evenly blended.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken breast into the garlic oil mixture.
- Then coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
- Place the coated chicken into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle any remaining breadcrumb mixture over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 30 minutes, or until:
- The chicken is no longer pink inside
- Juices run clear
- Internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
The coating should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot with pasta, salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
What to Serve With Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
This recipe pairs well with many side dishes:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted baby potatoes
- Spaghetti or fettuccine
- Caesar salad
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Garlic butter rice
It also works beautifully sliced over pasta or tucked into a sandwich.
Tips for the Best Crispy Chicken
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Pat chicken dry before dipping for better coating.
- Do not overcrowd the baking dish.
- For extra crispiness, bake on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
Variations You Can Try
- Add Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Mix in a little paprika for color and mild heat.
- Add lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for freshness.
- Use chicken tenders instead of full breasts for quicker cooking.
- Try adding a sprinkle of mozzarella on top during the last 5 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Keep chicken in a single layer or separate with parchment paper to prevent sogginess.
Reheating
For best results:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes
- Or use an air fryer for 4–6 minutes
Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the crispy coating.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil and minced garlic.
- In another bowl, combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, basil, and black pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast in the oil mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange chicken in the prepared baking dish and sprinkle any remaining breadcrumb mixture on top.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd the baking dish.
- Reheat in oven or air fryer to maintain crisp texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear, not pink.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can coat the chicken and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, but adjust cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer.
Is this recipe healthy?
It is baked, not fried, making it a lighter option compared to traditional fried chicken.
This Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is simple, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and packed with garlic and Parmesan flavor — it’s comfort food made easy.
