Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe That’s Better Than Fried

This Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and bursting with bold garlic and cheese flavor. Made with lighter ingredients and baked to golden perfection, this dish offers a satisfying crunch without the extra oil or calories of traditional fried chicken. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and pairs beautifully with your favorite veggies, salad, or whole grains.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Garlic Flavor – Each bite delivers savory, garlicky goodness that makes this dish unforgettable.
Crispy Parmesan Crust – The cheesy coating adds crunch without deep frying.
Lean Protein Made Delicious – A wholesome spin on classic breaded chicken.
Quick and Easy – From prep to plate in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4–5 oz each)
• ½ cup plain breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions

Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly coat with cooking spray.

Mix the Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and Dijon mustard.

Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then coat in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Bake to Perfection
Place chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispiness. Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the crust is golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy
Let rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot with lemon wedges, steamed veggies, or your favorite light sides.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 230
Protein: 30g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Sugar: 0g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Use Thin Cuts – Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for quicker, more even cooking.
• Fresh Parmesan = More Flavor – Grated fresh Parmesan gives better taste and texture than pre-shredded.
• Brighten It Up – A squeeze of lemon juice before serving adds a fresh contrast to the savory crust.
• Serve Smart – Try with roasted veggies or a simple side salad to keep things balanced.

Why This Recipe Works

This chicken dish brings together bold seasonings, a crunchy cheese coating, and lean protein for a meal that feels indulgent but is made with mindful ingredients. Baking instead of frying keeps the calories down, while still delivering maximum flavor and texture—ideal for weeknights, meal prep, or special occasions.

Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is proof that healthy meals don’t have to be boring. Crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s a satisfying dish that’s easy enough for busy nights yet delicious enough to serve to guests. With simple prep and big results, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.