If youโre craving an easy grilled chicken recipe that delivers punchy flavours, look no further than this garlic parmesan grilled chicken. Itโs juicy, cheesy, garlicky, and cooked to perfection on the grillโmaking it a showstopper at family barbecues or cozy dinners alike. This grilled chicken recipe uses simple ingredientsโlike olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and fresh parsleyโto create a layer of flavour that pops in every bite.
Letโs dive into why this Parmesan chicken stands out, and exactly how to nail it at home.
๐ Why This Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Is a GameโChanger
- Bold yet balanced taste โ The garlicโinfused marinade combined with nutty Parmesan cheese creates a chestnutโbrown crust thatโs irresistible.
- Simple & accessible โ No need for pricey ingredients or fancy toolsโjust basics from your pantry and a grill.
- Healthy protein option โ These grilled chicken breasts, at about 350โฏkcal per serving, deliver lean protein with minimal carbs when grilled without excess oil .
- Perfectly grilled texture โ Mediumโhigh heat locks in moisture and forms a gorgeous charred exterior, giving you that craveโworthy bite.
- Remarkably versatile โ Serve with pasta, salad, veggies, rice, or even in sandwichesโthis Parmesan chicken recipe adapts beautifully.
๐ง Ingredients โ What Youโll Need for the Best Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken
Serves 4:
Ingredient | Function |
---|---|
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts | Lean protein base |
ยผ cup olive oil | Helps marinade adhere & adds richness |
3 tbsp grated Parmesan | Provides umami and crispy cheesy crust |
4 cloves garlic, minced | Brings bold savory flavor |
1 tsp Italian seasoning | Adds herbal depth |
ยฝ tsp paprika | Gives subtle smokiness and color |
Salt & black pepper, to taste | Fundamental seasoning |
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped | Bright, fresh garnish |
Extra Parmesan (optional) | For finishing cheesy goodness |

๐ฅฃ StepโbyโStep: Making Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken
1. Make the Garlic Parmesan Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow bowl. Pour the marinade over them, making sure each cut is well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat & Prep the Grill
Heat your grill to mediumโhigh (around 400โ425โฏยฐF). Clean and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking and improve grill marks.
4. Grill to Juicy Perfection
Place the chicken on the grill and cook 6โ7 minutes per side, flipping once. Aim for an internal temperature of 165โฏยฐF and juices that run clear. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
๐ Serving Suggestions: What Pairs Best with Parmesan Chicken
Light & Fresh
- A cucumberโtomato salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or asparagus
- A crisp, peppery arugula salad
Hearty & Comforting
- Creamy garlic mashed potatoes
- Parmesanโtossed pasta
- Grilled corn on the cob
Creative Uses
- Parmesan chicken tacos with fresh slaw
- Chicken pesto panini with muddy Parmesan melt
- Chicken Caesar salad โ slice grilled chicken over crisp romaine
๐ก Pro Tips for the Perfect Grilled Chicken
- Pound your chicken evenly before marinating to ensure uniform cooking.
- Donโt rush the grill โ mediumโhigh heat seals juices and creates caramelized flavors.
- Rest before slicing โ this prevents juices from running out and keeps your chicken moist.
- Get cheese on hot chicken โ sprinkle extra Parmesan while itโs resting; the warmth will slightly melt it.
- Flavor add-ons: A squeeze of fresh lemon or a shower of parsley brightens every bite.
๐ฅ Nutrition Snapshot
Each serving (~6โฏoz chicken) provides approximately:
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: ~35โฏg
- Carbs: 1โ2โฏg
- Fat: ~20โฏg (primarily healthy monounsaturated fats)
- Sodium: Moderateโconsider reducing added salt or swapping lowโsodium cheese
๐ Variations to Use Again and Again
- Chicken thighs: Juicier, darker meat with a similar flavor profile
- Add heat: Stir in chili flakes or cayenne pepper
- Creamy twist: Top with a garlic Parmesan cream sauce after grilling
- One-pan skillet version: Sear on the stovetop, then bake to finish
- Herb-forward: Mix in thyme or rosemary for a more aromatic finish
๐ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I skip the marinating step?
Yes, but for best flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutesโthis allows garlic and Parmesan to permeate the chicken.
Q2: What if I only have chicken thighs?
Thighs work wonderfully. They stay juicier and the cooking time remains similar.
Q3: Can I bake instead of grilling?
Certainly! Bake the chicken at 425โฏยฐF for 20โ25 minutes on a parchment-lined sheet, then broil for extra crust.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 350โฏยฐF oven to retain juiciness.
Q5: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Garlic Parmesan grilled chicken appeals to most age groups and can be customized (less garlic, no paprika) for sensitive palates.
Q6: Can I freeze cooked chicken?
Yesโcool completely, wrap tightly, freeze up to 3 months, and thaw overnight before reheating.
๐ Conclusion
This garlic parmesan grilled chicken is all about flavor and simplicity. It is easy to prepare, hard to resist, and beautifully versatile. The garlic Parmesan marinade packs a punch, the grill gives a mouthwatering char, and the juicy chicken breast satisfies like no other.
Whether youโre new to grilling or a seasoned pro, this Parmesan chicken recipe is a keeperโdelicious the day you make it, and nearly as good leftover. Hereโs to your next unforgettable grilled chicken night!
Print
๐ Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken โ The Ultimate Flavour Experience
Ingredients
-
โช๏ธ 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
-
โช๏ธ ยผ cup olive oil
-
โช๏ธ ยผ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
โช๏ธ 4 cloves garlic, minced
-
โช๏ธ 1 tbsp lemon juice
-
โช๏ธ 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
-
โช๏ธ ยฝ tsp salt
-
โช๏ธ ยฝ tsp black pepper
-
โช๏ธ 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
-
โช๏ธ Extra grated Parmesan (for topping, optional)
Instructions
-
Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
-
Pound the chicken lightly for even thickness, then place it in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken and coat well.
-
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge for extra flavor.
-
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400ยฐF / 200ยฐC). Lightly oil the grates.
-
Grill the chicken for about 5โ7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until nicely charred and internal temp reaches 165ยฐF (74ยฐC).
-
Remove from grill, rest for a few minutes, then sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.