Garlic Butter Parmesan Crusted Chicken

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Prep Time:10

Cook Time:35

Total Time:45

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt

Garlic Butter:

¼ cup butter softened
1 garlic clove finely chopped
2 teaspoons dried parsley
Freshly grated Parmesan Cheese, to finish

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the seasoning - In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, dried parsley, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. This seasoning blend is where all the flavor starts.
Step 2: Prepare the chicken - Using a sharp knife, gently score the tops of the chicken breasts in a grid pattern. You are not cutting all the way through. These shallow cuts help the seasoning soak in and allow the chicken to cook evenly.
Step 3: Coat the chicken - Press the chicken breasts into the Parmesan seasoning mixture, coating both sides. Use your hands to gently press it in so it sticks well. Do not rush this step. This coating is what creates that flavorful crust.
Step 4: Preheat the oven - Preheat your oven to 230°C or 450°F. Let it fully heat so the chicken starts cooking right away when it goes in.
Step 5: Prepare the baking dish - Drizzle the olive oil into the bottom of a baking dish and spread it around. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top, leaving a little space between them.
Step 6: Bake the chicken - Bake the chicken for 20 minutes. During this time the seasoning will begin to crisp and the chicken will start cooking through.
Step 7: Make the garlic butter - While the chicken bakes, mix the softened butter with the finely chopped garlic and dried parsley until fully combined. This butter is what takes the dish from good to unforgettable.
Step 8: Add the garlic butter - Remove the chicken from the oven and brush the tops generously with the garlic butter. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over each piece.
Step 9: Finish baking - Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the top is golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C.
Step 10: Rest and serve - Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy.

Notes

Substitutions

Chicken thighs: Boneless thighs can be used for a juicier result with a slightly longer cook time.
Italian seasoning: Can replace parsley and thyme if that is what you have.
Butter alternative: Use olive oil or plant based butter if needed.
Pre grated Parmesan: Works in a pinch but freshly grated gives better flavor.

Variations

Spicy garlic Parmesan chicken: Add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
Herb heavy version: Add rosemary or basil for a stronger herbal note.
Cheesy crust: Mix mozzarella with the Parmesan for extra melt.
Lemon garlic finish: Add a squeeze of lemon juice after baking.

Tips and Tricks

Do not overbake: Use a thermometer to avoid dry chicken.
Score evenly: Uniform cuts help the chicken cook consistently.
Let the butter soften naturally: This makes mixing easier.
Rest before serving: Keeps the juices inside the chicken.
Double for leftovers: This reheats beautifully.

Serving Ideas

With roasted vegetables: Broccoli or carrots work perfectly.
Over mashed potatoes: Soaks up all that garlic butter.
With a simple salad: Balances the richness.
On pasta: Slice and serve over buttered noodles.
With rice: Keeps things simple and filling.

Storage and Make Ahead Tips

Refrigerator storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Meal prep friendly: Double the batch for easy lunches.
Avoid microwaving too long: It can dry the chicken.

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