Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, crispy, and flavor-packed chicken dish, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is a total winner. Imagine tender chicken breasts coated in a crunchy blend of parmesan, panko, and Italian herbs – all baked to golden perfection. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but fancy enough to impress guests!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to deliver a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. Each item has an important role in creating that perfect golden crust and juicy interior you’ll crave again and again.

• Chicken breasts: Cutting them into thinner pieces means super quick cooking and a crispier crust.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth of savory flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
• Flour: Helps the egg stick to the chicken so the breadcrumb coating adheres perfectly.
• Eggs: They act as the glue binding the crunchy crumb mixture to the chicken.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These give the crust extra crunch and a light texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for the best flavor boost and that signature cheesy crust.
• Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that brings herbs like oregano and basil to the party.
• Olive oil: Used for pan-frying to develop a golden crust before finishing in the oven.

Variations

One of the best parts about this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to amp up the heat, cater to dietary needs, or experiment with different flavors, this recipe serves as a fantastic base to get creative.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a subtle heat that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free flour to keep the crust crisp and delicious.
• Herb Swap: Try using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of Italian seasoning to give the dish a fresh twist.
• Cheese Variety: Mix in some grated Pecorino Romano with Parmesan for extra sharpness and complexity.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Begin by slicing each large chicken breast in half lengthwise, creating four thinner pieces that cook quickly and absorb the flavors better. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure the coating sticks well. Then sprinkle both sides generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper — this simple seasoning is the foundation for a delicious crust.

Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station

Get three bowls ready: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. This classic three-step coating process creates the irresistible texture of the chicken’s crust. Pro tip: use one hand for wet ingredients, the other for dry, to keep things neat and efficient.

Step 3: Coat and Fry the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Dredge each chicken piece first in the flour, then the egg, and finally press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture so the crust sticks well. Fry the chicken in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. This step builds that beautifully crisp crust we all love.

Step 4: Finish Cooking in the Oven

Once all pieces are browned, place them in the skillet and slip it into a preheated 400°F oven. Let the chicken cook for about 5 minutes more, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This brief roasting seals in the juices and ensures perfectly cooked, tender chicken under that crunchy crust.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil bring a burst of bright color and freshness that perfectly balances the richness of the parmesan crust. A wedge of lemon on the side adds a lovely citrus zing when squeezed over the chicken right before eating.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, try it alongside sautéed spinach or garlic green beans – they add just the right texture contrast and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the Parmesan crusted chicken and layer it on top of a homemade Caesar salad or nestle it around a bed of pasta tossed in a light olive oil and garlic sauce. Serving it family-style on a platter garnished with herbs makes the meal feel like a special occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and maintain most of its crispiness if stored properly.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken pieces by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze great for up to 2 months – perfect for quick meals later on.

Reheating

To keep the crust crispy, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes instead of microwaving. This method refreshes the texture without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes when I want something both comforting and impressively crispy with minimal effort. I truly hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, it might just become your new favorite weeknight dinner too!

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