The Ultimate Flavor-Packed Crunch
If you love crispy, golden chicken with bold garlic and cheesy parmesan flavor, this Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is about to become your new favorite meal! Coated in a crunchy parmesan-panko crust, this chicken is juicy on the inside and irresistibly crispy on the outside.
I love this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and full of bold flavors. Whether served with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Thighs will be extra juicy, while breasts stay tender when pounded to an even thickness.
Q: Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
Q: What makes the coating extra crispy?
Using a mix of panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan creates an ultra-crunchy crust. Also, pressing the coating firmly onto the chicken helps it adhere better.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Coat the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 8 hours before cooking for even better flavor.
Q: Can I use pre-grated parmesan?
Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives superior crispiness, but pre-grated works in a pinch!
What You Need to Make Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small ones)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Breading:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
For Frying:
- ¼ cup olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter (for extra crispiness)
How to Make Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally if they’re thick, or pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow bowl, mix panko, parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Press the chicken firmly into the parmesan-panko mixture, making sure it’s well coated.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Skillet Method (Best for Extra Crispiness!):
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Oven-Baked Method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place breaded chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Lightly spray with cooking spray and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place breaded chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve hot with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, and a side of marinara or garlic butter!
Tips for the Best Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
✔ Use panko, not regular breadcrumbs – Panko creates a lighter, crispier crust.
✔ Press the coating firmly – Helps it stick better and stay crunchy.
✔ Let the coated chicken rest – Refrigerating for 15 minutes before cooking helps the coating stay on.
✔ Use a mix of oil and butter – Oil crisps the breading, while butter adds rich flavor.
✔ For extra garlicky flavor – Brush with garlic butter right before serving.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “Crispy, cheesy, and so flavorful! This was a hit with my family!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 James K. – “Tried the air fryer method, and it turned out perfect. Will make again!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Samantha W. – “The garlic parmesan crust is next level! We served it with spaghetti, and it was amazing.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lucas R. – “Loved how crispy it was! The trick with the panko and parmesan really works.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica T. – “Super easy to make! I added a squeeze of lemon on top—so good!”
Printable Recipe
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
This Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor! Made with panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, and garlic, it’s the perfect easy dinner recipe.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small ones)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- For the Breading:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- For the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- For Frying:
- ¼ cup olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter (for extra crispiness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally if they’re thick, or pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow bowl, mix panko, parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Press the chicken firmly into the parmesan-panko mixture, making sure it’s well coated.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Skillet Method (Best for Extra Crispiness!):
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Oven-Baked Method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place breaded chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Lightly spray with cooking spray and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place breaded chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve hot with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, and a side of marinara or garlic butter!
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved this Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it on social media, pin it on Pinterest, or send it to a fellow chicken lover. I’d love to see your versions—tag me if you try it!
