Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the nutty taste of Parmesan with a crunchy breadcrumb coating. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want something satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, dried herbs
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings.
- Step 2: Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then press firmly into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Step 3: To bake, place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through. To pan-fry, heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until crispy and cooked through.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for added freshness.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Storage
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness, or use a skillet over medium heat. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to stay juicier. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it necessary to use eggs for coating?
Eggs help the Parmesan and breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. If you prefer, you can substitute with buttermilk or a mixture of milk and mustard for similar results.
PrintCrispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken combines tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful mixture of grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then baked or pan-fried to golden perfection for a deliciously crunchy exterior. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a quick dinner or an elegant meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Coating
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for pan-frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
- Beat the Eggs: In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. This will help the coating stick to the chicken breasts.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge it in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to adhere the coating well on all sides.
- Choose Cooking Method: To Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken breasts on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle or brush lightly with olive oil to help crisping. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
To Pan-Fry: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the coated chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side, until the exterior is golden and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). - Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing or serving. Enjoy your crispy Parmesan crusted chicken with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Using panko breadcrumbs will give the crispiest texture.
- The seasoning can be adjusted to taste; adding paprika or cayenne can give a nice kick.
- For an even crispier coating, double dip the chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safety (165°F or 74°C).
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Keywords: Parmesan chicken, crispy chicken breast, baked chicken, easy dinner, breadcrumb crusted chicken
