Crispy Baked Chicken Breast with Parmesan and Garlic: The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner

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When it comes to weeknight dinners, you want something that is both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. After a long day, the last thing you want is a meal that takes forever to prepare or requires complicated steps. Enter the Crispy Baked Chicken Breast with Parmesan and Garlic—a dish that combines simplicity with a punch of deliciousness, making it a perfect go-to for any busy evening. This recipe is quick to whip up, offers that irresistible crispy texture, and is packed with savory flavors your whole family will love. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make this delightful dish and why it deserves a spot in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Baked Chicken Breast with Parmesan and Garlic

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why this dish is so special. The Crispy Baked Chicken Breast with Parmesan and Garlic isn’t just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about enjoying a meal that is both comforting and full of flavor, all with minimal effort.

1. Perfect Balance of Crispy and Juicy

What makes this dish stand out is the balance between the crispy breadcrumb coating and the tender, juicy chicken breast. The Parmesan and garlic add a savory depth of flavor, while the breadcrumbs create a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the moist chicken. The mayonnaise marinade ensures the chicken stays juicy on the inside, preventing it from drying out during baking.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

2. Easy to Prepare

We get it—time is precious, and you don’t want to spend all evening in the kitchen. This recipe requires only 30 minutes of marinating and 25 minutes of baking, making it a hassle-free meal you can enjoy on even the busiest weeknights. All you need to do is mix the ingredients, coat the chicken, and let the oven do the rest!

3. Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved

The flavors in this dish are familiar and comforting, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. The crispy exterior combined with the savory garlic and Parmesan creates a meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying, and it’s likely to become a family favorite.

Key Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Breast with Parmesan and Garlic

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients to create a mouth-watering meal. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:

Table of Ingredients:

Ingredient	Amount
Chicken breast	2 lbs
Mayonnaise	3/4 cup
Salt	2 tsp
Chicken seasoning	3 tsp
Garlic (grated)	2 cloves
Parmesan cheese (grated)	1/2 cup
Plain breadcrumbs	1 1/2 cups
Non-stick spray	As needed

Why These Ingredients Matter:

• Chicken Breast: The lean protein in this dish ensures the chicken is tender and healthy, while still offering that satisfying bite.
• Mayonnaise: This ingredient may seem unusual for a baked recipe, but it’s crucial for ensuring the chicken stays juicy while providing the base for the crispy breading to stick.
• Parmesan Cheese: The grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the garlic and seasonings perfectly.
• Breadcrumbs: These create that much-loved crispy texture. Panko breadcrumbs, in particular, are excellent if you want extra crunch.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth and aroma to the marinade, enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy Baked Chicken Breast with Parmesan and Garlic

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making this crispy, flavorful chicken. You’ll find that it’s a simple, straightforward recipe that anyone can make.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken for Marinating

Start by gathering the chicken breast, mayonnaise, salt, chicken seasoning, and grated garlic in a large mixing bowl.

• What You Do: Combine all these ingredients, mixing well until the chicken is fully coated with the marinade. The mayonnaise will create a smooth coating on the chicken, allowing the breadcrumbs to stick better during baking.
• Why It’s Important: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors soak in, ensuring each bite is juicy and packed with flavor. If you have time, let it marinate for up to an hour for even more intense flavor.

Step 2: Make the Parmesan Breadcrumb Coating

While the chicken marinates, prepare the breadcrumb mixture.

• What You Do: In a separate bowl, combine the plain breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix them together so the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the Parmesan. This mixture will create the delicious crispy coating once it’s dredged over the marinated chicken.
• Pro Tip: For an extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crisp up beautifully when baked.

Step 3: Dredge and Coat the Chicken

Now that your chicken is marinated and the breadcrumb mixture is ready, it’s time to coat the chicken.

• What You Do: Use tongs to dredge each piece of marinated chicken into the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken, then place each coated piece on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
• Why It Works: The breadcrumbs provide the golden, crispy exterior that you crave, while the Parmesan adds an extra layer of flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken to Perfection

It’s time for the oven to work its magic.

• What You Do: Lightly spray the top and bottom of the chicken pieces with non-stick spray. This helps the chicken get even crispier. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. Flip the chicken and continue baking for another 6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on both sides.
• Why It’s Crucial: The baking time ensures the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. This is important for food safety and ensures your chicken is cooked through while still being tender and juicy.

Tips for Making the Perfect Crispy Baked Chicken Breast

To take your Crispy Baked Chicken Breast with Parmesan and Garlic to the next level, keep these tips in mind:

1. Use Non-Stick Spray for Extra Crispiness

While it may seem like a small detail, non-stick spray makes a big difference. A light coating on the chicken ensures that the breadcrumbs crisp up evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

2. Don’t Overbake

While it’s tempting to bake the chicken longer to get it extra crispy, be careful not to overdo it. Overbaking can dry out the chicken, leading to a less enjoyable meal. Stick to the recommended baking times and always check the internal temperature to avoid this.

3. Serve with Complementary Side Dishes

This crispy chicken is perfect on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with a side salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables to make it a complete meal.

Nutritional Information for Crispy Baked Chicken Breast with Parmesan and Garlic

If you’re concerned about the nutritional value of this dish, don’t worry—it’s a healthy, balanced meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Table of Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350-400 kcal
Protein	30g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	20g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	600mg

Why It’s a Healthy Choice:

• High in Protein: The chicken breast provides a great source of lean protein, making this meal both filling and nourishing.
• Lower in Carbs: With only 12g of carbohydrates per serving, it’s a great option if you’re watching your carb intake.
• Good Fat: The fats in the mayonnaise and Parmesan are healthy fats, which help with satiety without being overly greasy.

FAQs About Crispy Baked Chicken Breast with Parmesan and Garlic

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe:

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the plain breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, the leftover crispy chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, place it in the oven to restore the crispiness.

4. What sides go well with crispy chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.

Conclusion: A Simple Yet Flavorful Meal for the Whole Family

There’s no need to overcomplicate dinner. The Crispy Baked Chicken Breast with Parmesan and Garlic offers an easy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that your entire family will love. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. The combination of crispy breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.

Why not give it a try tonight? You’ll soon see why this dish is bound to become a weeknight staple in your household. And once you try it, be sure to share your thoughts—your family will thank you for it

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