Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a flavorful, golden-crusted dish that’s bursting with zesty lemon, savory garlic, and nutty Parmesan cheese. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The crispy coating and juicy chicken make it a family favorite you’ll turn to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, golden Parmesan coating
• Bright lemon and garlic flavors that complement the chicken perfectly
• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
• Bakes or pan-fries in under 30 minutes
• Versatile—serve with pasta, salad, or veggies
• Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved
• No marinating required
• Perfect balance of richness and freshness
• Can be made gluten-free with simple swaps
• A restaurant-quality meal at home

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Fresh lemon juice and zest
• Garlic (minced)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Bread crumbs (panko or regular)
• Eggs
• Flour
• Salt and black pepper
• Italian seasoning or dried herbs (optional)
• Olive oil or butter (for pan-frying or drizzling if baking)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. For pan-frying, heat a large skillet with oil over medium heat.
2. Pound chicken to even thickness (about ½ inch) and season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
3. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with lemon juice and garlic, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning.
4. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip into egg mixture, then coat in Parmesan-breadcrumb mix.
5. To bake: Place chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
   To pan-fry: Fry chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra lemon wedges for serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: Serves 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken tenders for quicker cooking and bite-sized portions
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version
• Mix in fresh basil or thyme for a more herbaceous flavor
• Add a creamy lemon sauce on top for extra richness
• Turn it into a sandwich or wrap with lettuce and aioli

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crust. This dish is not ideal for freezing once cooked, as the coating may lose its crisp texture.

FAQs

What kind of Parmesan should I use?

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese that may contain anti-caking agents.

Can I use thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs work great and offer a juicier result. Just adjust the cook time slightly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer—chicken is done at 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear.

Can I bake instead of pan-fry?

Absolutely. Baking gives a slightly lighter texture and is less hands-on, especially when cooking multiple pieces.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes.

Can I prepare this in advance?

You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours before cooking. Cook just before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended once cooked, but you can freeze the uncooked, breaded chicken and bake from frozen.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Make sure to pat the chicken dry before dredging and press the coating firmly onto the surface.

What sauces pair well with it?

Lemon aioli, garlic butter sauce, or a light creamy herb sauce pair beautifully.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make recipe that offers a crispy, flavorful crust and tender, juicy chicken inside. With zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and savory Parmesan, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you bake or fry it, this crowd-pleasing recipe will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

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