This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delicious treat! It’s baked to perfection with a crunchy, cheesy top that you’ll love. Perfect for dinner anytime!
Honestly, the crunch makes this dish super fun to eat! Serve it with some veggies or a side salad, and you have a meal that feels fancy but is easy to make. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless skinless are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for alternatives, you could use thighs for more flavor or even turkey breasts if you’re feeling adventurous.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely salty flavor. You can substitute Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a nice crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they won’t be as crispy. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also good if you need a gluten-free option.
Garlic Powder: This adds great flavor without the chopping. Fresh minced garlic can be used instead, just keep in mind it will change the texture a bit.
How Do I Get My Chicken Extra Crispy?
The key to a crispy crust is all in the breading technique and cooking method. Here’s how to ensure that crunch!
- Start with bone-dry chicken; this helps the coating stick.
- Use three bowls for your batter: flour, eggs, and the crumb mixture. This creates layers that lock in the crisp.
- If you pan-fry before baking, it adds color and crunch should you opt to bake the chicken after. Always use a hot pan with enough oil.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; this ensures the chicken gets evenly crispy.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes post-cooking will help the juices settle and keep the crust intact. Enjoy the crunch!
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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying)
- Cooking spray or extra olive oil (if baking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total of about 35-40 minutes to have your crispy Parmesan crusted chicken ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you choose to bake the chicken, get a baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a quick spray with cooking spray.
2. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Make sure it’s well combined so every bite is packed with flavor!
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In another bowl, beat the two large eggs until they are fully mixed. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
4. Set Up the Breading Station:
In a third shallow dish, place the flour. This is where the chicken will get its first coating. It helps the egg and breadcrumb mix stick better.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help the coating adhere better. First, dip each chicken breast into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat it evenly and thickly. Repeat this for all chicken breasts.
6. Pan-Fry for Extra Crunch (Optional):
If you like a little extra crunch, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This will give an amazing texture before they bake!
7. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the breaded chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the crust is looking crispy and golden.
8. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside, making it more tender.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice, serve, and enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Parmesan crusted chicken! It pairs great with a side salad, veggies, or your favorite dipping sauce.
FAQ about Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and stay juicier during cooking. Just make sure they are boneless and skinless for the best results.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Many brands offer gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs that work well in this recipe.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave, but be cautious to avoid drying them out!
Can I Freeze the Chicken After Cooking?
Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
