This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a tasty treat! The chicken is coated in a crunchy mix of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, giving it a golden, crunchy outside that everyone loves.
I enjoy making this dish because it’s quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight. Serve it with some veggies or pasta, and you’ve got a winner meal! Plus, the smell will make your kitchen feel like a restaurant! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with turkey cutlets or even chicken thighs for a juicier finish.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely flavor and crunch. For a different taste, try using Pecorino Romano or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a milder profile.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives the chicken a super crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, but the texture may be slightly different. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Olive Oil: This is great for frying, but you can also use vegetable oil or avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point. For a lighter version, bake the chicken without frying.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Chicken?
The secret to that delightful crunch lies in how you prepare the chicken. First, pounding the chicken to an even thickness is key as it helps it cook evenly and ensures a tender result. This also creates more surface area for the coating.
- Mix the Parmesan and panko well to spread the cheese flavor throughout the crust.
- Always dredge in flour first; it helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick better.
- Ensure your oil is hot before adding the chicken; this helps seal in the juices and creates a crispy coating.
- A finishing bake in the oven ensures the chicken cooks through without burning the crust.
These tips will help you achieve that crispy perfection everyone loves!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 20-25 minutes to fully cook, including both frying and baking the chicken. In no time, you’ll have a delightful crispy dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing. This will help keep the chicken from sticking!
2. Pound Your Chicken:
Next, take each chicken breast and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1/2-inch thick. This helps it cook evenly and stay tender!
3. Make the Coating Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s well blended.
4. Prepare the Dredging Station:
In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until they are smooth. In a third bowl, add the flour. This is your assembly line for coating the chicken!
5. Dredging the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first dredge it in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press down lightly to make sure the crumbs stick well!
6. Frying the Chicken:
Now, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When it’s nice and hot, carefully add the coated chicken breasts. Cook them for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they look golden brown and crispy.
7. Bake for Perfect Cooking:
Once browned, transfer the chicken breasts to your prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Final Touches:
After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges if you like a little zing.
Enjoy your crispy Parmesan crusted chicken with your favorite side dishes! It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan gives a great flavor, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. For a milder option, try using a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The taste and texture will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This helps maintain their crispiness!
Can I Freeze the Chicken Before Cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the coated chicken! Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with frying and baking as per the recipe.
