This Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken is a tasty treat with its crunchy, cheesy coating that magically pairs with juicy chicken. Add some fresh zucchini, and you’ve got a colorful dish!
Honestly, who can resist that golden, cheesy crunch? It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying the flavors. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up for dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe as they cook quickly and remain juicy. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use chicken thighs or cutlets, which will also work well.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a delicious crunch and flavor. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano is a great option. Nutritional yeast can also work for a dairy-free version, giving a cheesy flavor without the guilt!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is versatile and light. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash or even bell peppers are good alternatives. They’ll add a nice touch and complement the dish well.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder instead—about a half teaspoon per clove, but fresh is always best for this dish!
How Can I Make My Chicken Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy coating on the chicken is all about the breading method. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly. Moisture can prevent a crispy crust.
- The three-step breading process is key: flour first to help the egg stick, egg wash for moisture, and then the Parmesan mixture for crunch.
- Cook over medium heat. High heat can burn the coating before the chicken cooks through, while too low can result in sogginess.
- Ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. A drop of water should sizzle when it hits the oil.
With these tips, your chicken will come out crispy and delicious every time!
Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken With Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need around 10 minutes to get everything prepped, and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps them crisp up better. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to add flavor.
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This is your breading assembly line!
3. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first coat it in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip off, and finally press it into the Parmesan mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
5. Sauté Garlic and Zucchini:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the sliced zucchini. Cook the zucchini, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s tender and lightly browned.
6. Combine Chicken and Zucchini:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the zucchini. Let it warm through for about 2 minutes, allowing those fantastic flavors to mingle.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor, if you like. Serve the chicken and zucchini hot, with lemon wedges on the side for some extra zest! Enjoy your delicious meal!
Now you’re all set to enjoy your crispy, flavorful Parmesan garlic chicken paired with tender sautéed zucchini—perfect for any night of the week!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great in this recipe and can add even more flavor and juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a few extra minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Ensure your Parmesan cheese is also labeled gluten-free for safety.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, taking care not to overcook the chicken.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to mix it up! Bell peppers, asparagus, or even spinach would be delicious additions to this skillet dish. Just sauté them along with the zucchini until tender.
