13 Parmesan Main Dishes That Make Dinner Extra Flavorful
These recipes bring Parmesan front and center, showing how it can elevate chicken, pork, salmon, and even vegetables into hearty main dishes. From crispy classics like chicken Parmesan to fresh twists like quinoa bowls and salmon fillets, each dish blends comfort with irresistible flavor. No matter how you prepare it, air-fried, baked, smoked, or simmered, Parmesan always finds a way to make dinner feel extra special.
Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf
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Ground chicken is mixed with Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then baked like a traditional meatloaf. Topped with marinara and melted cheese, it brings all the flavors of chicken Parmesan in a new form. Moist and hearty, it slices perfectly for dinner. A clever twist on two family favorites.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf
Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa
Nutty quinoa is cooked with fresh spinach and plenty of Parmesan for a creamy, flavorful dish. It works as a main on its own or alongside roasted meats. The cheese gives the quinoa richness without making it heavy. A simple recipe with a big payoff.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa
Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks
Drumsticks are seasoned with garlic and Parmesan, then roasted on a sheet pan. They come out crisp on the outside and tender inside. This recipe is easy to scale for a crowd. A hands-off dinner with big flavor.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks
Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings
Chicken wings are smoked low and slow, then coated with garlic and Parmesan. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the cheesy topping. Juicy on the inside and crisp on the outside, they’re great for cookouts or game day spreads.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
This air fryer version creates the same golden crunch as the classic but with less oil. The chicken stays juicy inside while the Parmesan coating crisps up beautifully. Marinara and mozzarella finish it off. Quick, easy, and just as satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Easy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets
Thin chicken cutlets are dredged in Parmesan and breadcrumbs before pan-frying. The crust cooks up golden while the meat inside stays tender. They’re simple, fast, and versatile enough to pair with salads, pasta, or potatoes. A recipe that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Easy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets
Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini
Juicy steak bites are tossed with cheese-filled tortellini in a creamy Parmesan sauce. The garlic adds depth, while the Parmesan makes the sauce velvety. It’s rich, hearty, and perfect for a cozy dinner. A pasta dish that feels indulgent and filling.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini
Oven Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This baked version of Parmesan chicken keeps the crunch without frying. The crust locks in moisture, making the chicken juicy and flavorful. It’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for company. A reliable go-to recipe.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Parmesan Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin
Juicy pork tenderloin is coated in Parmesan and herbs, then roasted until golden. The crust adds both texture and flavor. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party but easy to make on a weeknight. Leftovers make excellent sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin
Keto Baked Parmesan Salmon
This recipe skips breadcrumbs and uses Parmesan to form a golden, flavorful crust. The salmon stays moist under the cheesy topping. It’s quick, low-carb, and full of flavor. A great option for an easy weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Keto Baked Parmesan Salmon
Chicken Parmesan Subs
Breaded chicken cutlets are tucked into rolls with marinara, melted cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Each bite is messy, cheesy, and delicious. They’re hearty enough for dinner and fun enough for game day. A sandwich version of a classic dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan Subs
Chicken Parmesan
This Italian-American classic features breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara and melted mozzarella. The Parmesan in the crust adds richness and depth to every bite. It’s best served over pasta or with garlic bread on the side. A timeless dish that’s always satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan
Air Fryer Parmesan Pesto Crusted Salmon Fillets
Salmon fillets are topped with a mix of Parmesan and pesto before cooking in the air fryer. The topping forms a cheesy, herby crust while the fish stays flaky. It’s bold in flavor and quick to prepare. A fresh twist on salmon.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Parmesan Pesto Crusted Salmon Fillets
