Garlic Parmesan Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken
Garlic Parmesan Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken offers a healthier alternative to classic fried chicken by baking tender chicken pieces coated in a flavorful garlic-Parmesan panko crust. This dish delivers a perfect balance of crunch, cheesy richness, and juicy meat, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions with family and friends.
- Author: Lucas
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Chicken
- Chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless, about 2 to 3 pounds)
Coating Mix
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional herbs: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, rosemary, or thyme (finely chopped)
For Coating
- 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres well. Lightly season all sides with salt and pepper to add the first layer of flavor.
- Prepare the Coating Mix: In a large bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs you prefer. Mix thoroughly to create the crispy, cheesy crust.
- Coat the Chicken: Brush each chicken piece lightly with olive oil or melted butter to help the coating stick and brown evenly. Press the chicken pieces firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, covering all sides completely.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the coated chicken on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet with space between pieces. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is crisp and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in the juices. Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil and a drizzle of lemon juice.
Notes
- Use cold chicken to help the coating stick better.
- Press the coating firmly onto the chicken to build a thick, crunchy crust.
- Cut chicken into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure optimal crispiness.
- Flip the chicken halfway through baking to brown both sides evenly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 4-5 oz chicken with coating)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: oven-fried chicken, garlic Parmesan chicken, crispy chicken, healthier fried chicken, baked chicken recipe, family dinner