Parmesan Crusted Chicken: The Ultimate Crispy Delight Recipe
Parmesan crusted chicken is a mouthwatering dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a crispy, golden masterpiece! Imagine tender chicken breasts coated in a delightful blend of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and fragrant herbs, baked to perfection for that irresistible crunch. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, enhanced by a zesty lemon squeeze and a hint of garlic. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or creamy mashed potatoes, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress. Get ready to savor the joy of cooking with this easy, delicious recipe!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly crispy texture that satisfies every crunch craving.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile dish that pairs beautifully with salads, veggies, or pasta.
- A family favorite that even picky eaters will adore!
parmesan crusted chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather your ingredients: chicken breasts, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness.
- In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Feel free to add your favorite herbs for extra flavor!
- In another bowl, drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts. Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice, serve, and watch everyone enjoy your delicious parmesan crusted chicken!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Course |
| Cuisine: | Italian |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 25 minutes |
| Total Time: | 40 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | With a side salad |
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts – The star of the dish, providing a juicy base for the crispy coating.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps create that irresistible crust.
- Bread crumbs – Provides the crunch factor; use panko for extra crispiness.
- Garlic powder – Enhances the flavor profile with a savory kick.
- Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Eggs – Acts as a binder to help the coating stick to the chicken.
- Olive oil – Adds moisture and helps achieve a golden-brown finish.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Pepper – A dash of spice to elevate the overall taste.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Gather your ingredients: chicken breasts, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness.
Step 2: Make the Coating
In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Feel free to add your favorite herbs for extra flavor!
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
In another bowl, drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts.
Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Slice, serve, and watch everyone enjoy your delicious parmesan crusted chicken!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- For extra crunch, add a bit of panko breadcrumbs to the cheese mixture.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
- Experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for added depth of flavor.
- Pair with a light salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
How to Serve
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light, crunchy contrast.
- Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Top with a zesty lemon butter sauce for an extra flavor kick.
- Accompany with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy touch.
- Offer a side of marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the Italian flair.
- Try it in a sandwich with fresh arugula and pesto for a tasty twist.
- Serve over a bed of pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic for a hearty option.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Parmesan crusted chicken fresh:
- Allow the chicken to cool completely.
- Place it in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Label the container with the date.
Freezing
For longer storage, follow these steps:
- Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag.
- Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
To enjoy your chicken again:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken on a baking sheet.
- Reheat for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
FAQs
What can I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Parmesan crusted chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also add a side of pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make Parmesan crusted chicken gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This way, you can enjoy the same crispy texture without the gluten.
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. Also, marinating the chicken beforehand can help lock in moisture and flavor.
Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses! While Parmesan adds a distinct flavor, you can try using Pecorino Romano or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your new favorite dish, Parmesan Crusted Chicken! It’s crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Just imagine the delightful crunch with every bite! This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. So, gather your loved ones, whip up this delicious meal, and enjoy the smiles around the table. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with joy and laughter!
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