Crispy Garlic Chicken with Asparagus

If you’re looking for a quick, flavor-packed dinner that tastes like it came from a restaurant, this Crispy Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is it! Inspired by recipes from Alyssa Rivers, this dish combines buttery, golden-crusted chicken with tender garlic parmesan asparagus — all made in one skillet in just 30 minutes.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal is simple, satisfying, and made with pantry staples. The crispy coating locks in juicy flavor while the garlic butter asparagus adds the perfect fresh balance.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved lengthwise)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
• ½ cup Italian bread crumbs
• ½ cup + 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Asparagus:

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into thirds
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Skillet

• Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

2️⃣ Create the Breading Station

• In one shallow dish: Add 4 tablespoons melted butter.
• In another shallow dish: Mix breadcrumbs, ½ cup Parmesan, garlic powder, and flour.

3️⃣ Bread the Chicken

• Dip chicken into melted butter.
• Coat evenly in breadcrumb mixture.
• Press coating firmly so it sticks well.

4️⃣ Cook the Chicken

• Place in hot skillet.
• Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 75°C).
• Remove and set aside.

5️⃣ Cook the Garlic Asparagus

• Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter to skillet.
• Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
• Add asparagus.
• Cook 4–6 minutes until tender-crisp.
• Season with salt, pepper, and sprinkle remaining Parmesan.

6️⃣ Finish the Dish

• Return chicken to skillet.
• Heat through for 1–2 minutes.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over buttery mashed potatoes
• Pair with white rice or garlic rice
• Add a side salad for a lighter meal
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter
• Great with roasted baby potatoes

Storage Tips

Refrigerator:
Store in airtight container up to 3 days.

Freezer:
Freeze chicken separately up to 2 months. (Asparagus is best fresh.)

Reheating:
Reheat in skillet or air fryer to keep chicken crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible.

Variations

1. Lemon Garlic Version – Add fresh lemon juice and zest to asparagus.
2. Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes to breading.
3. Air Fryer Method – Air fry chicken at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.
4. Low-Carb Version – Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour + Parmesan.
5. Cheesy Upgrade – Top chicken with mozzarella before serving.
6. Creamy Garlic Sauce – Add heavy cream to skillet for a rich sauce.
7. Mushroom Add-In – Sauté mushrooms with asparagus.
8. Bacon Lover’s Style – Add crispy bacon pieces.
9. Honey Garlic Twist – Drizzle honey over finished chicken.
10. Italian Herb Boost – Add oregano and basil to breading.
11. Panko Crunch – Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
12. Oven-Baked Version – Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
13. Chicken Thigh Swap – Use boneless thighs for extra juiciness.
14. Cream Cheese Finish – Stir cream cheese into asparagus for creaminess.
15. Mediterranean Style – Add cherry tomatoes and olives.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, but fresh gives better texture.

2. How do I know chicken is done?
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and dairy-free Parmesan.

4. What oil can replace butter?
Olive oil works well.

5. Why is my chicken not crispy?
Make sure skillet is hot before adding chicken.

6. Can I prep this ahead?
Yes, bread chicken earlier and refrigerate until cooking.

7. Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
Absolutely, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.

8. What goes well with this meal?
Rice, pasta, or roasted potatoes.

9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

10. Is this kid-friendly?
Very! The crispy coating makes it a family favorite.

Crispy Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is the perfect combination of comfort food and fresh flavor. It’s buttery, crispy, garlicky, and ready in just 30 minutes — making it ideal for busy weeknights or even casual dinner guests. The one-skillet method keeps cleanup easy while delivering big flavor.

Once you try it, it might just become your new go-to family dinner!

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