This Garlic Parmesan Crispy Chicken is finger-licking good! It’s made with juicy chicken pieces coated in a crunchy breading and flavored with garlic and Parmesan cheese. Yum!
I love how simple it is to whip up! You can enjoy it as a main dish or toss it in salads. Just be ready to share, because everyone will want a piece! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using chicken thighs for a juicier bite, but chicken breasts work just as well. If you want a lighter option, boneless, skinless chicken tenders are a great choice too!
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for coating, but if you need a gluten-free option, go for almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a wonderful crunch! If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will do, but the texture won’t be as crispy. You can also make your own by toasting bread and processing it.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lot of flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano works nicely as a substitute. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast, which will add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture can be tricky but following these steps will help!
- Make sure to coat the chicken evenly, shaking off excess flour and egg. This helps the breadcrumbs stick better.
- The use of panko breadcrumbs is key! They are light and airy, perfect for achieving a good crunch.
- Drizzling garlic butter before baking adds flavor and helps with browning. You can adjust how much you use based on your taste.
- For the final touch, broiling the chicken for a few minutes at the end crisps it up even more. Just keep an eye on it!
With these tips, your Garlic Parmesan Crispy Chicken will be a hit every time!
Garlic Parmesan Crispy Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Preparation:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
For the Coating:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Garlic Butter Drizzle:
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking. With an additional few minutes for broiling if desired, your total time will be around 40-45 minutes. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important to get the chicken nice and crispy. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Coatings:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, crack and beat the eggs until well mixed. Then, in a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese for that cheesy crunch.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and first dip it into the flour mixture. Make sure to shake off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip off, and finally coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix. Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Make the Garlic Butter:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant (but be careful not to burn it!). Remove from heat.
5. Drizzle and Bake:
Drizzle the garlic butter evenly over the chicken pieces on the baking sheet. This adds flavor and helps with browning. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness:
If you want your chicken super crispy, switch your oven to broil and cook for an extra 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, take the chicken out of the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy your tasty Garlic Parmesan Crispy Chicken!
This recipe creates crunchy, flavorful bites that are perfect for snacking, as an appetizer, or as a main dish with your favorite sides! Enjoy! 🍽️
Garlic Parmesan Crispy Chicken FAQ
Can I Use Skin-on Chicken for this Recipe?
Absolutely! Skin-on chicken will add extra flavor and crispiness. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but they may not be as crispy. For a gluten-free option, try crushed cornflakes or almond flour for a similar crunch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Crispy Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or air fryer to help maintain the crispiness!
Can I Freeze the Chicken Before Cooking?
Yes! You can freeze the breaded chicken pieces before baking. Just make sure to freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
