Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breasts; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 lemon (juiced)

Indulge in the savory goodness of garlic parmesan chicken, a dish that brings together tender chicken breast with a crisp, flavorful coating of garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether served with vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 lemon, juiced

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 25-30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 1 chicken breast) contains around 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g fat, and 5g carbohydrates. This is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts.
Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option. Additionally, gluten-free breadcrumbs work well for those with dietary restrictions. For a lighter version, consider using yogurt instead of oil for the coating.

Serving and Pairings

Garlic parmesan chicken pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. It also complements pasta dishes or can be served over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover garlic parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Not preheating the oven properly can lead to uneven cooking.
Skipping the olive oil can result in a dry coating.
Forgetting to let the chicken rest can make it less juicy.
Using too much salt can overpower the dish.
Not pressing the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken may cause it to fall off during baking.
Overcooking the chicken will dry it out.
Neglecting to check the internal temperature can lead to undercooked chicken.

Helpful Tips

Use freshly grated parmesan for better flavor.
Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano.
For extra crunch, broil the chicken for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Pair with a light white wine for a delightful meal.
Consider marinating the chicken in garlic and lemon for an hour for enhanced flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking for even results. Cooking from frozen may also require additional cooking time.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool them to room temperature before sealing.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a delicious gluten-free version of garlic parmesan chicken.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, consider mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.

What sides go well with garlic parmesan chicken?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, a simple pasta salad, or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, grilling is a great alternative! Just ensure the chicken is well-coated and grill on medium heat, turning occasionally until cooked through.

Conclusion

Garlic parmesan chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings rich flavors and satisfying textures to your table. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this delicious meal with your favorite sides and savor the incredible taste!