There's nothing quite like the aroma of Garlic Parmesan Chicken sizzling in the kitchen, the scent of roasted garlic blending with rich, nutty parmesan. This dish brings together juicy chicken, a silky, savory sauce, and a crispy, golden finish that's bound to make dinnertime unforgettable.
I first made this when I needed a quick yet impressive meal for unexpected guests, and it’s been a go-to ever since. It's the kind of recipe that tastes fancy but is deceptively easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Let’s dive into why this dish will become a household favorite.
Why You'll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Get ready to fall head over heels for this simple yet flavorful dish. Garlic Parmesan Chicken has everything you could want from a crowd-pleasing dinner, and it's all made with a few pantry staples.
First off, this recipe is incredibly easy. With just a few simple steps and one pan, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in under 40 minutes. No complicated techniques or extensive prep work – just straightforward cooking that yields mouthwatering results.
The flavor is simply irresistible. Garlic and parmesan are a match made in heaven, and when paired with tender, perfectly seasoned chicken, they create a rich, savory profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
Plus, it's wonderfully versatile. Whether you serve it over pasta, alongside roasted vegetables, or with a crusty loaf of bread for mopping up the sauce, there are endless ways to enjoy this dish. It even makes for excellent leftovers, if you can resist eating it all in one go.
Lastly, the crispy finish sets it apart. By finishing the chicken under the broiler, you get that delightful golden crust without needing a deep fryer. It’s a healthier way to add crunch, and it tastes just as indulgent.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken lies in the quality and balance of its ingredients. Everything comes together to create a meal that feels decadent yet accessible.
We start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and stay moist when prepared just right. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, but make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Next, there’s garlic – the heart of this recipe. Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor. Jarred garlic can work in a pinch, but nothing beats the vibrant aroma of fresh cloves sizzling in oil.
Parmesan cheese is what gives the dish its signature depth and richness. Grate it fresh if you can, as pre-shredded parmesan doesn't melt as smoothly. The cheese should be finely grated so it fully incorporates into the sauce and topping.
For the sauce, we combine heavy cream with a bit of chicken broth. This duo creates a luscious, velvety sauce that’s light enough to complement the chicken without overpowering it. If you prefer a slightly lighter option, you can swap the cream for half-and-half, but note that the sauce will be less thick.
Finally, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs mixed with extra parmesan helps achieve that crunchy, golden crust. Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for their extra crisp texture, but regular breadcrumbs will also do the trick if that's what you have on hand.
You’ll need a good ovenproof skillet, like a cast-iron or stainless steel pan, to sear the chicken and then finish it under the broiler. This saves on dishes and keeps all the flavors in one place.
How To Make This Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a breeze, and the payoff is incredible. Let me walk you through each step so you can achieve perfect results every time.
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a touch of Italian seasoning. Make sure the chicken is dry before seasoning, as this helps it sear beautifully in the pan. Heat a bit of olive oil in your ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken breasts. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Don't worry if they're not fully cooked at this point; they’ll finish in the oven.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it; you want the garlic golden and aromatic, not bitter.
Next, pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step is key for unlocking deep flavors. Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Add in half of the grated parmesan, stirring until it melts and the sauce is smooth.
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over each piece. Top them with the remaining parmesan and a generous sprinkle of breadcrumbs. Transfer the skillet to the broiler and cook for 2-3 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Your chicken is now ready to be served, with a total time of around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Expect tender, juicy chicken with a crunchy, cheesy crust and a luxurious garlic-infused sauce. It's comfort food at its best.
Storage Options
Garlic Parmesan Chicken makes excellent leftovers, and there are a few ways to keep it tasting fresh. If you have extra, store the chicken and sauce together in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When reheating, use the oven or a skillet rather than the microwave. The microwave tends to make the chicken rubbery, while the oven helps maintain its texture. Heat at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth to bring it back to the right consistency.
You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit your preferences and what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
If you’re a fan of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while it sautés. It’ll give the dish a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
For a lower-carb version, skip the breadcrumbs and use finely crushed nuts, like almonds or walnuts, to add crunch. The nutty flavor complements the parmesan beautifully.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Fresh basil or chopped parsley make excellent garnishes, and a touch of rosemary can add a lovely depth to the sauce.
If you’re out of heavy cream, try using a combination of milk and cream cheese. The cream cheese will help thicken the sauce and add a slight tang.
Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with the sides. This chicken pairs well with almost anything, from roasted vegetables to fluffy mashed potatoes. You can even serve it over a bed of creamy polenta for an elegant twist.
Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and making it your own!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
This garlic parmesan chicken recipe features juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken breasts coated in a crispy parmesan and garlic crust. It’s an easy, flavorful dish that’s ideal for family dinners or meal prepping. Serve with vegetables, pasta, or salad for a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix panko, grated parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs.
- Dip each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then coat in the parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear each chicken breast for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
- Transfer chicken to the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken in garlic and olive oil for 30 minutes before coating.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best taste and texture.
- Pair with a lemon wedge for a zesty finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
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