Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Golden, crispy, and loaded with flavor, Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
With just a few pantry staples, this dish delivers savory Parmesan crusted chicken that’s juicy inside and irresistibly crunchy outside.
Flavor-Packed Ingredients for Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Olive oil – Adds moisture and helps the coating adhere while promoting browning in the oven.
Garlic – Infuses the chicken with rich, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with Parmesan.
Dry bread crumbs – Create the crispy, golden crust that makes this dish so addictive.
Grated Parmesan cheese – Delivers salty, umami flavor that melts into the breadcrumb coating.
Dried basil leaves – Introduce a subtle herbal note that complements the garlic and cheese.
Ground black pepper – Enhances all the other flavors with a gentle kick.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The lean protein foundation, tender and satisfying when baked to perfection.
How to Prepare Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Begin by coating chicken breasts in a garlic-infused olive oil mixture, then dredge them in a Parmesan and herb breadcrumb blend. Bake until the crust turns golden and the meat is juicy and fully cooked.
Tips for the Best Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the garlic and oil mixture for 30 minutes before breading. Try mixing Italian-style breadcrumbs with Panko for an ultra-crispy texture. If your Parmesan is freshly grated, it will melt more evenly and boost the flavor.
Storing Leftover Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain the crispiness. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well and tend to stay juicier. Just adjust the baking time slightly based on thickness.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried basil?
Absolutely. Substitute 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh basil for the dried version, and add it to the breadcrumb mixture.
What sides go best with this dish?
A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or buttery pasta all pair wonderfully with this chicken.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
Check with a meat thermometer—when the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C), it’s ready to serve.
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
- 1 clove garlic finely minced
- ⅔ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup dry breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. In one mixing bowl, stir together the olive oil and minced garlic until well combined. In a second bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and black pepper. One at a time, dip each chicken breast into the olive oil mixture, ensuring full coverage, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with any leftover breadcrumb mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F and the juices run clear. Serve immediately while hot.
