This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a treat for your taste buds! With a crunchy, cheesy topping, it’s easy to make and super yummy. Perfect with any side!
Who doesn’t love chicken that’s both crispy and cheesy? When I make this dish, my family always asks for seconds. Serve it with some veggies, and it’s a dinner win! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, making it easy to prepare. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using chicken thighs; they stay juicier during cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and crispness. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or a store-bought grated version can work too, though they may alter the taste slightly.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add the perfect crunch. If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs—but make them crispy by toasting them in a dry pan first for better texture.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of Italian herbs adds great flavor. If you don’t have this on hand, mixing dried oregano, basil, and thyme can be a quick alternative.
Olive Oil: Use it for frying the chicken because it brings a lovely taste. If you prefer, avocado oil or melted butter can be great substitutes!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Crispy?
The key to keeping your chicken crispy lies in the preparation and cooking methods. Here’s how to achieve that ideal golden crust:
- Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry. This helps the coating stick better.
- Coat Well: When coating with flour, egg, and the breadcrumb mixture, press down to ensure good adhesion.
- Use Oil Wisely: Start with a hot skillet and don’t skimp on the oil; this helps achieve that crispy finish.
- Finish in the Oven: Baking after browning gives you juicy chicken and the time to set the crust without burning it on the stovetop.
Following these tips will give you crispy results every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Crispy Coating:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Breading Process:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For Cooking:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or more as needed)
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook, making it a great option for a quick weeknight meal. In total, you’ll need around 35 minutes to serve up this flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil. This ensures that your chicken won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup!
2. Create the Coating Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This will be the crispy coating that makes your chicken so tasty!
3. Set Up Breading Stations:
In another shallow bowl, place the flour. In a different bowl, beat the large eggs until smooth. This will prepare your chicken for the crispy coating.
4. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better! Lightly season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
5. Dredge and Coat the Chicken:
First, dredge each chicken breast in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides well.
6. Cook the Chicken on the Stovetop:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the crust is a beautiful golden brown.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook!
8. Let It Rest and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This will help keep it juicy! Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and offer lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Parmesan crusted chicken! It’s perfect for dinner or even a special occasion. Bon appétit!
Is There a Way to Make This Chicken Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Just make sure to check the labels on all your ingredients to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Yes! While Parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Mozzarella for a gooey texture or Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. Just keep in mind that it may alter the overall taste of the dish.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
This crispy chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. Pasta with a light sauce also complements the flavors beautifully!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain its crispiness, rather than using the microwave.
