Description

Craving a simple yet flavorful chicken dish that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside? Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the perfect solution! This easy recipe coats tender chicken breasts in a garlicky, Parmesan-crusted breadcrumb mixture, then bakes them to golden perfection. With the savory blend of garlic, Parmesan, and basil, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, family meals, or even entertaining guests.

Ingredients

This dish comes together with ingredients that create a crispy, flavorful chicken. Here’s what you need and why each matters:

Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Infuses the chicken with moisture and helps the coating adhere.
Garlic (1 clove, minced): Adds a bold, aromatic flavor to the coating.
Dry Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Provide the crispy, crunchy exterior.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (⅔ cup): Contributes nutty, savory depth and enhances crispiness.
Dried Basil Leaves (1 tsp): Infuses a subtle, herbaceous note.
Ground Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a mild, spicy kick.
Skinless, Boneless Chicken Breast Halves (6): Serve as the lean, tender protein base.

Substitutions and Variations

Olive Oil: Swap for avocado oil or melted butter for a richer flavor.
Garlic: Use ½ tsp garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available.
Breadcrumbs: Replace with panko for extra crunch, crushed cornflakes, or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan: Substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Basil: Swap for dried oregano, Italian seasoning, or fresh herbs (use 1 tbsp if fresh).
Chicken: Use chicken thighs or tenderloins (adjust baking time slightly).
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Add-Ins: Mix ½ tsp smoked paprika, cayenne, or lemon zest into the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Coating:
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 minced garlic clove until well combined.
- In a separate shallow bowl, combine 1 cup dry breadcrumbs, ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp dried basil leaves, and ¼ tsp ground black pepper. Stir to mix evenly.
Coat the Chicken:
- Pat 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves dry with paper towels to help the coating stick.
- Dip each chicken breast into the olive oil-garlic mixture, coating both sides lightly.
- Then, press each breast into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides. Shake off excess crumbs.
Assemble in Baking Dish:
- Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish in a single layer.
- Sprinkle any remaining breadcrumb mixture over the top of the chicken for extra crunch.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, juices run clear, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 3–5 minutes to retain juices.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or alongside your favorite sides (see serving suggestions below).

Cooking Tips

Uniform Chicken: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½-inch) for consistent cooking.
Crispier Coating: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
Avoid Sogginess: Pat chicken dry before coating and avoid overcrowding in the baking dish to promote crispiness.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm 165°F (74°C); overcooking can dry out the chicken.
Extra Crunch: For an even crispier result, place a wire rack in the baking dish to elevate the chicken and allow air circulation.