Crispy Oven-Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken is a delicious and healthy chicken dinner idea perfect for any weeknight. This recipe delivers incredibly flavorful, juicy chicken with a perfectly golden, crunchy coating, making it a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a different texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Pecorino Romano works well too.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs offer extra crispiness; whole wheat breadcrumbs are a good healthy option.
- Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic can be used, but powder mixes more evenly.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil is a suitable alternative.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons milk (any kind)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 35-40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (varies with chicken size)
- Tools needed: Baking sheet, shallow dishes, meat mallet (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. If your chicken breasts are thick, you can pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness for quicker, more even cooking, ensuring a tender healthy chicken dinner.
2. Set Up Your Breading Stations
In one shallow dish, pour the milk. In a second shallow dish, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper, mixing them thoroughly. This setup makes coating easy.
3. Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast first into the milk, letting any excess drip off. Then, press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated. You want a nice, thick layer for that crispy texture.
4. Arrange and Drizzle
Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the top of each piece of chicken. This helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown crisp.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until it is golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer for a safe and delicious healthy chicken dinner.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning with the breadcrumbs.
- Lemon Zest Brightness: Mix in 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon zest with your breading for a brighter taste.
- Cheesy Layers: Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Crispy Oven-Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to help retain its crispiness. Avoid microwave reheating for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make this recipe with frozen chicken?
Yes, but you must completely thaw the chicken first before proceeding with the recipe steps.
How do you prevent the breading from getting soggy?
Ensure your oven is fully preheated and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, allowing proper air circulation. A wire rack can also help.
Is this a gluten-free healthy chicken dinner idea?
You can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
Roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or quinoa are excellent healthy chicken dinner accompaniments.
Can you prepare the chicken ahead of time?
You can coat the chicken up to an hour before baking, storing it uncovered in the refrigerator to keep the breading from getting damp.
How do you know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.