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High Protein Low Calorie Garlic Parmesan Chicken - Simple, Flavor-Packed, and Weeknight Friendly

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3–4 medium)
  • 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
  • 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
  • 3 cloves garlic, very finely minced or grated
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional but recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry. If they’re thick, slice them horizontally into cutlets, or pound to an even 1/2–3/4 inch thickness for quick, even cooking.
  2. Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, 2 teaspoons of the olive oil, Dijon, Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat and rest: Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat. Let it sit 10–20 minutes on the counter. If marinating longer (up to 8 hours), refrigerate and bring to room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking.
  4. Choose your method: Oven-baked: Heat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with foil or parchment and lightly oil it. Place chicken on the pan, sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon Parmesan over the tops, and drizzle the last teaspoon of olive oil. Bake 14–18 minutes until the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C). Broil 1–2 minutes at the end for extra browning if desired.
  5. Air fryer: Heat to 380°F (193°C). Lightly spray the basket. Arrange chicken in a single layer, sprinkle with Parmesan, and cook 10–12 minutes, flipping at the halfway mark, until 165°F internal temperature.
  6. Pan-seared: Heat a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat with 1 teaspoon olive oil. Cook 4–6 minutes per side, sprinkling the reserved Parmesan on the top side after flipping. Cover for the last minute for gentle finishing.
  7. Rest and garnish: Transfer chicken to a plate and rest 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan if you like, and a squeeze of lemon.
  8. Serve: Pair with simple sides like steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, a crisp salad, or cauliflower rice.