Parmesan adds a savory, salty, umami punch to all kinds of dishes, from pasta and chicken to pork, fish, and vegetables. This collection shows how versatile grated or crusted Parmesan can be — used in sauces, coatings, roasted sides, one‑pot meals, and even tenderloins and seafood. Each recipe balances the rich, tangy flavor of Parmesan with herbs, citrus, or creamy sauces to make satisfying dinners that are big on taste and fairly simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for weeknights, meal prep, or something a little more elegant, these Parmesan dishes deliver depth and comfort in every bite.

Easy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets

Easy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Thin chicken cutlets get a light seasoned breading with Parmesan and breadcrumbs before pan‑frying to golden crispness. The cheese adds savory depth while keeping the crust crunchy. They cook quickly and stay juicy inside without much fuss. Great served with lemon wedges or over a simple salad.
Get the Recipe: Easy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets

Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce

Creamy zucchini pasta sauce with shaved parmesan.
Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

Fresh zucchini blends into a creamy, Parmesan‑rich sauce that clings to pasta beautifully. Garlic and olive oil build savory flavor, while the Parmesan adds saltiness and silkiness. Toss with your favorite pasta shape and a sprinkle of herbs. A lighter yet indulgent vegetarian pasta option.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A bowl of penne pasta mixed with shredded chicken and topped with grated cheese, placed on a light-colored surface with a fork nearby.
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Chicken, garlic, cream, and Parmesan slowly meld together in the crockpot for a rich pasta base. When the pasta is added near the end, it soaks up the creamy sauce. The result is tender chicken and silky noodles with bold flavor. A comforting one‑pot meal with minimal hands‑on time.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Parmesan Lemon Chicken and Broccoli

A white bowl filled with cooked broccoli, chicken pieces, and grated cheese—perfect for everyday meals or special meals—sits on a gray surface.
Parmesan Lemon Chicken and Broccoli. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Chicken and broccoli roast or sauté with lemon zest, garlic, and plenty of Parmesan. The citrus brightens while the cheese deepens the savory profile. Broccoli stays tender but not mushy. It’s a balanced, colorful skillet dinner.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Lemon Chicken and Broccoli

Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Parmesan

Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Parmesan. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Chicken breasts cook in the Instant Pot with lemon and Parmesan for a tender, juicy result. Pressure cooking locks in moisture and melds flavors fast. A quick broil at the end adds a golden finish. Great with pasta or over rice.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Parmesan

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Parmesan and seasoned crumbs form a crispy crust around chicken cutlets in the air fryer. The result is golden, crunchy outside and tender inside without excess oil. Herbs and lemon pepper add brightness. A lighter take on classic crusted chicken.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini

Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Cheese tortellini and seared steak pieces get tossed in a garlic Parmesan sauce that’s creamy and rich. The steak adds hearty protein, while the Parmesan boosts umami. Fresh parsley or basil adds color and lift. A great skillet meal that feels indulgent but comes together quickly.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini

Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

A casserole dish with meatloaf and parsley on a cutting board.
Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

This meatloaf blends Italian flavors with Parmesan for a juicy, cheesy twist on a classic. Tomato sauce and melted cheese finish the top. Each slice is rich with savory flavor and comforting texture. Perfect with mashed potatoes or a side salad.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Pasta cooks in broth with garlic, cream, and Parmesan in one pot until tender and saucy. No draining or extra pots needed. Fresh herbs or pepper add a finishing pop. A simple yet satisfying dish for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Parmesan Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin

Parmesan Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

A rind of Parmesan mixed with herbs seals tender pork tenderloin, locking in flavor and moisture. Roasting creates a crisp, savory exterior. Slices stay juicy and pair well with roasted veggies or mashed side dishes. Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for any night.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Piece of chicken cutlet on a fork resting over a larger portion with a lemon wedge.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Photo credit: Quick Prep Recipes.

Juicy chicken breasts get coated with a mixture of Parmesan and crisp crumbs before baking or pan‑frying. The cheese helps the crust brown beautifully. Each bite has salty crunch and tender meat. Serve with tomato sauce or a squeeze of lemon.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks

Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

Drumsticks roast on a sheet pan with garlic, olive oil, and a Parmesan herb coating. As they cook, the cheese browns into a flavorful crust. The garlic infuses every bite. Easy cleanup and big taste make this a go‑to weeknight recipe.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks

Keto Baked Parmesan Salmon

Keto baked parmesan salmon on foil on a baking sheet.
Keto Baked Parmesan Salmon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Salmon fillets get a Parmesan and herb crust before baking until just flaky. The cheese adds savory crispness without carbs. Lemon zest and pepper brighten the rich fish. A low‑carb, high‑flavor entrée.
Get the Recipe: Keto Baked Parmesan Salmon

Parmesan Roasted Carnival Squash

Parmesan Roasted Carnival Squash. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sweet carnival squash wedges roast with olive oil, salt, and Parmesan until caramelized and cheesy. The cheese crisps around the edges. Smoky paprika or herbs complement the sweetness. A vibrant veggie side with a savory punch.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Roasted Carnival Squash

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Pieces of chicken on a plate of spaghetti.
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Chicken breasts get coated in seasoned crumbs and Parmesan and air‑fried to perfection. The air fryer delivers crisp crust and juicy meat with less oil. A quick sauce and melted cheese finish it off. Great served over pasta or with a side of greens.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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