Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

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Cook Time: 30 minutes

Cheesy, garlicky chicken is baked to crisp perfection in this beloved recipe with thousands of 5-star reviews. Easy, affordable, and full of Italian-inspired flavor, this oven-baked breaded chicken recipe makes the perfect meal for busy weeknights. A few simple steps will give you succulent, basil-kissed chicken with a deep golden Parmesan crust. Add this easily customizable recipe to your rotation for a mouthwatering win every time.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prepare for the chicken.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 clove of minced garlic. This will be your garlic-infused oil for dipping the chicken.

Step 3: In another bowl, mix together 1 cup of dry bread crumbs, cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of dried basil leaves, and teaspoon of ground black pepper. This will be your breading mixture.

Step 4: Dip each skinless, boneless chicken breast half into the garlic-infused olive oil, making sure it's fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the Parmesan bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.

Step 5: Arrange the breaded chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. If there's any leftover bread crumb mixture, sprinkle it on top of the chicken for an extra crispy crust.

Step 6: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. The chicken should be golden and crispy on the outside.

Step 7: Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful, garlic Parmesan chicken!

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes, a fresh green salad, or any other Italian-inspired side of your choice.

How to Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To maintain the crispiness, place the chicken in a single layer, using parchment paper to separate layers if necessary. To reheat, use the oven or an air fryer to keep the crispy texture.

Nutrition Facts (per serving): 281 calories, 11g fat, 14g carbs, 30g protein.

Reviews from the Allrecipes Community:

• "Really great and pretty healthy chicken dish," says reviewer AmyLiz23. "Cooked exactly 30 minutes and they were perfect. I used panko bread crumbs because I think they offer a better crunch."
• "Delicious!" raves Wendy T. "I have been looking for a good baked chicken recipe that is easy and good. The chicken was juicy and flavorful. My husband loved this and I will definitely make it again!"
• "Excellent flavor, juicy, and reheats really well," says home cook mrs0327. "Even the leftovers go fast!"

Introduction: Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a beloved dish that has gained widespread popularity for its simplicity, bold flavors, and crispy texture. Combining the savory richness of Parmesan cheese with the aromatic allure of garlic, this dish has become a favorite for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. But beyond its deliciousness, there is an intriguing story behind this dish, along with regional variations and interesting facts that make it even more captivating.

History of Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

The roots of Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken lie in the rich tradition of Italian-American cuisine. While the use of garlic and Parmesan cheese in Italian dishes dates back centuries, this specific style of breading and baking chicken likely emerged in the mid-20th century, as American home cooks began experimenting with more convenient yet flavorful ways to prepare chicken. The dish embodies the Italian spirit of combining simple ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Its appeal grew rapidly, becoming a mainstay in homes across the United States.

Regional Variations and Unique Twists

Though the basic recipe for Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken remains largely the same, regional variations abound, reflecting the diverse ways in which this dish has been embraced. In the American South, for instance, the dish may be seasoned with a touch of Cajun spices or served alongside a tangy remoulade sauce for extra zest. In contrast, in parts of Italy, similar dishes featuring Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs might be made with veal or pork, offering a slight departure from the chicken-centric American version. Additionally, some cooks opt to use panko breadcrumbs for an even crispier texture, a technique that has gained popularity in recent years due to its lighter and airier consistency compared to traditional breadcrumbs.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken stands out from similar dishes like Chicken Parmesan or fried breaded chicken due to its healthier baking method. Unlike Chicken Parmesan, which is traditionally smothered in marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, this dish keeps things simple with a golden, crispy coating of garlic-infused olive oil, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan. The absence of sauce allows the flavors of the garlic and cheese to shine through, resulting in a more delicate and nuanced flavor profile. In comparison to fried chicken, the baked version is also lighter, with less oil used, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a delicious chicken dish with fewer calories.

Where Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is Typically Served

Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of settings. It is commonly found as a weeknight dinner option, paired with simple sides such as roasted potatoes, salad, or pasta. In Italian-American restaurants, it may appear as part of a larger menu of Italian-inspired fare, often served alongside spaghetti or as part of a mixed grill platter. The dish also shines at family gatherings and potlucks, where its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing nature make it a reliable choice for feeding a group. Whether at a casual dinner table or a festive celebration, Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a dish that always brings smiles.

Interesting Facts About Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Popular Variations: Many home cooks modify the recipe by adding their personal touch, such as incorporating herbs like Italian seasoning or rosemary. Others may experiment with different cheeses like Romano or Asiago for an extra burst of flavor.
• Healthier Option: Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a great alternative to fried chicken, as baking the chicken instead of frying it reduces the amount of fat and calories while retaining the crispy texture that many people love.
• Global Appeal: While it is firmly rooted in American kitchens, the flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese are universally loved, which explains why similar versions of the dish can be found around the world, from Italy to Latin America, and even in parts of Asia.
• Pairing Perfection: This dish pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides, from crisp green salads to buttery mashed potatoes. The simplicity of the dish allows for a range of creative pairings, making it a versatile choice for almost any meal.

Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is more than just a simple dishit's a culinary experience that connects people to the rich traditions of Italian-American cooking while offering opportunities for personal creativity. Whether youre making it for your family or serving it to guests, this dish promises to deliver both comfort and satisfaction with every bite.

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