This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a tasty delight, with golden, crunchy topping full of cheesy goodness. It’s easy to make and perfect for any dinner!
I love serving it with a side of veggies or pasta. It’s like a hug on a plate, and who can resist that crispy topping? Just watch out for the crunch—it’s addictive! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time since thighs can take a bit longer.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives that lovely cheesy flavor. If you’re out, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or use a combination of mozzarella and nutritional yeast for a vegetarian version.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko creates a super crispy crust. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but the texture might not be as light. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes can add an extra crunch!
Olive Oil: This helps in browning the chicken. Feel free to swap it with canola oil or melted butter for different flavors. Just remember butter burns faster, so keep an eye on it!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Coating Stays Crispy?
To get that perfect crispy coating, start by ensuring the chicken breasts are completely dry. Pat them down with paper towels to remove moisture, which can make the coating soggy. When dipping, make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken to create a thick layer.
- Use medium-high heat to sear the chicken before baking. This helps lock in moisture and adds a nice brown crust.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to help retain juices and keep that crispy outside.
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 Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crispy Parmesan crusted chicken will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to cook. You’ll have it ready to serve in approximately 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This creates a deliciously crunchy coating for your chicken.
3. Beat the Eggs:
In another shallow bowl, crack and beat the two large eggs until smooth. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. Dip each breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to make sure the crumbs stick well.
5. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken breasts. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy.
6. Bake the Chicken:
After searing, you can either transfer the skillet to the preheated oven or move the chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help keep it juicy. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty touch.
Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Parmesan crusted chicken! It’s a dinner that will impress everyone!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be juicier and more flavorful. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may require a few extra minutes to reach the internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work fine, although the texture might be less crispy. Another great alternative is crushed cornflakes or even ground almonds for a gluten-free version!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so in the oven for the best texture—simply warm it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and coat the chicken and then refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
