Garlic-Parmesan Chicken
Garlic-Parmesan Chicken features tender boneless breasts coated in a flavorful mixture of crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Baked to perfection, this dish offers a crispy exterior and savory taste, making it ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests who love classic, cheesy chicken dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cracker crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder in a shallow dish.
- Melt margarine in a shallow dish.
- Dip each chicken breast in the margarine, then coat with the crumb mixture.
- Place coated chicken breasts on a lightly greased baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like parsley or thyme to the cracker mixture. If you don't have Ritz crackers, any buttery cracker or even panko breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. To ensure even cooking, try to use chicken breasts of similar thickness. Also, you can use melted butter instead of margarine for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal. Consider serving it alongside Jane'S Potato Casserole for a comforting dinner. A drizzle of lemon juice over the chicken enhances the flavors, and it also goes well with rice or pasta for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Garlic-Parmesan Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, but this may make the coating less crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garlic-Parmesan Chicken contains roughly 613 calories, with 16g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 680mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may require a longer cooking time. The skin will add extra fat and flavor, so ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
What can I do if I don't have Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or any hard cheese that grates well. Alternatively, nutritional yeast can be a great dairy-free option that provides a cheesy flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coated chicken breasts in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).