Go Back

Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken - Crispy, Juicy, and Weeknight Easy

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness or sliced into cutlets)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (finely grated, not shredded)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • 3 cloves garlic (finely minced)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for color and depth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
  • Olive oil spray or a light drizzle (to help crisp the topping)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it. Pound chicken breasts to an even 1/2–3/4 inch thickness or slice them into cutlets for even cooking.
  2. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter and minced garlic. Let it sit a minute to bloom the garlic flavor.
  3. Mix the coating: In another bowl, stir together Parmesan, panko, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Assemble: Brush each chicken piece with the garlic butter on both sides. Press the chicken into the Parmesan-panko mixture, coating evenly. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly mist or drizzle the tops with olive oil for extra crunch.
  5. Bake: Cook for 18–22 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden.
  6. Optional broil: For deeper color, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
  7. Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Serve hot.