Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs); 1 1/2 lbs baby potatoes, halved; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch); 3 tbsp olive oil (divided); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

When it comes to weeknight dinners, I’m all about easy yet flavorful meals that require minimal cleanup. This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is a game-changer in my kitchen. With tender chicken coated in a crispy, golden Parmesan crust, paired with roasted potatoes that are perfectly seasoned and caramelized, this dish is both satisfying and simple. The best part? Everything cooks together on one pan, making it incredibly convenient.

What I love most about this recipe is the harmony of textures — the crunchy topping on the chicken, the soft yet crisp-edged potatoes, and the rich, savory flavor in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just looking for a quick and delicious meal, this sheet pan dinner checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Effortless Cooking: Everything roasts together in the oven with minimal effort.
Perfect for Busy Evenings: It’s a one-pan wonder that saves time on cooking and cleanup.
Incredible Flavor: The Parmesan coating adds a rich, cheesy crunch that pairs perfectly with roasted potatoes.
Customizable: Easily add extra veggies or switch up the seasoning to suit your taste.
Great for Meal Prep: It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or packed lunches.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs. Chicken breasts provide a leaner option, while thighs stay incredibly juicy and tender during roasting. Both work beautifully with the crispy Parmesan crust.

If you prefer a quicker cooking time or smaller portions, you can also use chicken tenders — just be mindful to reduce the baking time to prevent overcooking.

Options for Substitutions

Chicken Alternatives: If you’d like to switch things up, try using turkey cutlets or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Potatoes: While baby potatoes are perfect for this recipe, you can also use Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
Parmesan Cheese: For a sharper flavor, swap Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great, but panko will provide extra crunch. For a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free crackers.
Seasoning Variations: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika, Italian herbs, or even a pinch of cayenne for some extra kick.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Toss in some broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Chicken Breasts or Thighs – The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy protein base.
Baby Potatoes – Their creamy texture and ability to crisp up make them perfect for roasting alongside the chicken.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a rich, savory flavor and creates that irresistible golden crust.
Breadcrumbs – Helps form the crispy coating that makes the chicken extra crunchy.
Olive Oil – Used to coat the potatoes and help the chicken stay moist while baking.
Garlic Powder – Provides a savory depth that enhances both the chicken and potatoes.
Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color to the chicken coating.
Italian Seasoning – Brings a perfect blend of herbs to complement the Parmesan crust.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the roasted potatoes.
Fresh Parsley – Adds a bright pop of color and freshness as a garnish before serving.

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Sheet Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a large sheet pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

In a large bowl, toss the baby potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Spread them out evenly on one side of the sheet pan, leaving space for the chicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Crust

In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with a paper towel. Brush each piece with olive oil, then press them into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating. Place the coated chicken pieces on the empty side of the sheet pan.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer the sheet pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Stir the potatoes halfway through for even roasting.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

How Long to Cook Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Cooking time for this dish is approximately 25-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. If you’re using smaller chicken pieces like tenders, reduce the cooking time to about 20-22 minutes.

For extra crispiness, you can broil the dish for the final 2-3 minutes — just keep a close eye to avoid burning the crust.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Dry the Chicken Thoroughly: Patting the chicken dry before coating helps the crust stick better and enhances crispiness.
Even Potato Sizes: Cut your potatoes into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Halving baby potatoes usually works best.
Use Panko for Extra Crunch: Swapping regular breadcrumbs for panko gives the coating a superior crisp texture.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Spread the ingredients out so they roast instead of steaming. Crowding can lead to soggy results.
Add a Drizzle of Butter: For an extra golden and rich crust, drizzle melted butter over the chicken before baking.
Stir the Potatoes Midway: Tossing the potatoes halfway through cooking ensures they brown evenly.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Oil on the Chicken: Brushing the chicken with oil before coating helps the Parmesan crust adhere better and crisp up beautifully.
Overcrowding the Sheet Pan: If the chicken and potatoes are too close together, they’ll steam rather than roast. Spread them out for proper browning.
Forgetting to Stir the Potatoes: Tossing the potatoes midway through ensures all sides get that golden, crispy finish.
Underseasoning: Be sure to season the potatoes and chicken generously for full flavor. Parmesan alone won’t carry all the seasoning.
Overcooking the Chicken: Using a meat thermometer is key — cook until 165°F (75°C) for juicy, tender results.
Skipping the Broil: For an extra-crispy crust, broil the dish for the final 2-3 minutes — but watch it closely to avoid burning.
Using Cold Chicken: Let your chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh parsley or other herbs at the end brightens the dish and adds a fresh touch.

What to Serve With Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

1. Garlic Bread

A warm, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the savory juices from the roasted chicken and potatoes.

2. Steamed Broccoli

This light and nutritious side balances the richness of the Parmesan crust.

3. Green Beans Almondine

Tender green beans with crunchy almonds add texture and a touch of elegance.

4. Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with tangy dressing complements the hearty chicken and potatoes.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

For a flavorful side that pairs perfectly with the Parmesan crust, try roasted Brussels sprouts with a sprinkle of balsamic glaze.

6. Creamy Coleslaw

The cool, creamy texture of coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the warm sheet pan dinner.

7. Rice Pilaf

A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs and garlic makes a fantastic side dish.

8. Honey-Glazed Carrots

Sweet and savory, these carrots add a pop of color and delightful flavor to your plate.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken and potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the chicken and potatoes in separate containers to maintain the chicken’s crispness.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and potatoes on a baking sheet in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through. For a quicker option, the air fryer is ideal for restoring the chicken’s crisp texture.
Freezing: While the potatoes don’t freeze well due to texture changes, the Parmesan crusted chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: ~450 kcal
Protein: ~40g
Carbohydrates: ~30g
Fat: ~20g
Saturated Fat: ~6g
Fiber: ~4g
Sugar: ~2g
Sodium: ~600mg

These values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the Parmesan coating and season the potatoes in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then assemble and bake when ready.

2. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

If you’re out of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even Grana Padano for a similar savory flavor.

3. Can I add more vegetables to the sheet pan?

Absolutely! Broccoli, carrots, or zucchini are great additions. Just ensure they are cut to similar sizes to cook evenly with the potatoes.

4. How do I keep the chicken crispy when reheating?

For best results, reheat the chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) or in an air fryer to restore its crispy coating. Avoid microwaving as it may turn the crust soggy.

5. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but note that bone-in chicken may require 10-15 minutes of additional cooking time. Be sure to check the internal temperature for doneness.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.

7. How can I make this spicier?

Add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the Parmesan mixture for a spicy kick.

8. Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes! Just use two sheet pans to avoid overcrowding and ensure everything roasts evenly. Rotate the pans halfway through baking for best results.

Conclusion

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is a foolproof solution for busy nights when you want something delicious yet simple to prepare. With its crispy, golden crust and perfectly roasted potatoes, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining guests, this easy sheet pan meal will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Enjoy!