Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the deliciousness of crispy, golden-brown breaded chicken with the rich, savory flavors of parmesan and garlic. It’s simple, quick, and delivers a dish that feels indulgent without being complicated. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, you can have a steakhouse-quality meal at home that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts (butterflied or pounded to 1-inch thickness)
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup marinara sauce or Alfredo sauce
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Salt and pepper, to taste

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

Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
Butterfly or pound the chicken breasts to about 1-inch thickness and pat dry.
In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg until smooth. In another shallow bowl, combine parmesan, breadcrumbs, and minced garlic.
Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then press into the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture until fully coated.
Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle or brush lightly with olive oil.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and its internal temperature reaches 165°F.
While the chicken is baking, warm the marinara or Alfredo sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
Once the chicken is done, spoon the warm sauce over each chicken breast, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Using Boneless Thighs: If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, this recipe works great with them too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may cook a bit faster.
Different Sauces: Swap the marinara sauce for a tangy BBQ sauce or a creamy pesto sauce for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Variety: You can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella for an even cheesier topping or use a blend of parmesan and Asiago for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they might cook faster than chicken breasts.

Can I make this recipe without marinara or Alfredo sauce?

Absolutely! You can serve this with any sauce you prefer, such as BBQ sauce, pesto, or even a creamy garlic sauce.

How can I make the chicken extra crispy?

For an extra crispy crust, try using a wire rack on the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, making the coating even crunchier.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Then, just bake it when you’re ready to eat.

How can I tell when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute the parmesan with Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or mozzarella, depending on your flavor preferences.

How can I make this dish lower in calories?

To make this recipe lighter, you can bake the chicken without the breadcrumbs or use a lighter version of cheese. You can also serve the chicken with a side of steamed veggies instead of a heavy sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts after they’ve cooled. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of baking?

You can pan-fry the chicken breasts in a skillet with olive oil, but baking allows the chicken to cook evenly and maintain a crispy texture without the need for constant flipping.

What side dishes go well with Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, a simple green salad, or even mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is an easy, flavorful dinner that brings a little bit of restaurant magic to your home. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight meal, it’s sure to impress with its crispy, cheesy crust and juicy chicken. Try it tonight and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal!