This Easy Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Zucchini is a tasty and healthy meal! Juicy chicken is coated in a crispy Parmesan crust, and it pairs perfectly with tender zucchini. Yum!
I love how quick this is to whip up on a busy night. Just bake and enjoy—my family can’t get enough of that cheesy, garlicky goodness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken breasts work well, but chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken tenders instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor and texture, but you can use pre-grated. For a non-dairy option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without cheese.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give extra crispiness. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will do. For a gluten-free dish, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts.
Zucchini: If zucchini isn’t available, you can substitute with yellow squash or even bell peppers for a colorful twist. They will cook similarly and add great texture.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Becomes Perfectly Crispy?
Getting the chicken crispy is all about the coating and cooking method. Here are some tips to help you achieve that golden crust:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry. This helps the coating stick better and promotes crispiness.
- Press the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken. This ensures the coating adheres well while cooking.
- Cook on medium heat, not too high. If the heat is too high, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps maintain moisture and keeps it tender.
With these simple steps, your chicken will be deliciously crispy every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
Easy Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Zucchini:
- 2 large zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and another 15-20 minutes to cook everything. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breading Mixture:
In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. This will be your crispy coating.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Using paper towels, pat the chicken dry to remove excess moisture. This will help the coating stick. Take each piece of chicken and thoroughly coat it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down lightly so the crumbs adhere well.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the coated chicken pieces and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color. The chicken should be cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic and Zucchini:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, include the sliced zucchini. Stir and sauté for about 4-6 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still has a slight crunch. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Warm:
Return the crispy chicken to the skillet with the zucchini. Allow everything to warm together for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is heated through, garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious meal of crispy Parmesan garlic chicken with tender zucchini!
This dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a hit at the dinner table. Bon appétit! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Zucchini
Can I Use Chicken with Skin for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken for a richer flavor! Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as skin might take a few extra minutes to get crispy. Make sure the internal temperature still reaches 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of regular breadcrumbs. This will keep the recipe crisp and delicious!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed so that all vegetables are tender but still crisp.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. Enjoy your meal again! 😊
