This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a tasty dish that features juicy chicken coated with a crunchy, cheesy topping. What’s not to like about that?
The best part? It’s simple to make and sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. I love serving it with a side of veggies or pasta—it’s a winner every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for convenience and quick cooking. If you’re looking for a different option, try using chicken thighs for a juicier texture, or even turkey breasts if you want to switch up the flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative that still brings some cheesy flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a delightful crunch. You could substitute regular breadcrumbs, but for the best crunch, stick with panko! If gluten-free is a priority, look for gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
Eggs: The eggs help the coating stick well to the chicken. If you prefer not to use eggs, you can substitute with a mixture of milk and cornstarch or use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
What’s the Best Way to Get That Perfect Crispy Coating?
To achieve that crispy, golden crust, follow these essential steps carefully.
- Make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry; moisture can prevent the coating from sticking.
- Coat the chicken in flour first. This helps the eggs stick better. Don’t skip this step!
- Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture firmly so it adheres well.
- Fry the chicken briefly in olive oil until golden brown before baking; this locks in the crispiness. Keep the oil at medium heat for even cooking without burning.
These little details will help ensure you end up with chicken that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside!
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 (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes approximately 10 minutes to prep and about 20-25 minutes to cook, making the total time around 35-40 minutes. It’s a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This will be where your chicken will finish cooking.
2. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, optional Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This will give your chicken that tasty crunchy topping!
3. Prepare the Eggs and Flour:
In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re well beaten. In a separate bowl, place the flour. These will be your breading stations!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and pat it dry with paper towels, which will help the coating stick better. First, coat the chicken lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it fully into the beaten eggs, and finally, press it firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a nice coating on both sides.
5. Fry the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, place the coated chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy.
6. Bake to Finish Cooking:
Carefully transfer the chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty kick if desired.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Parmesan crusted chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs! They will be juicier and have a slightly richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, as thighs may take a bit longer than breasts to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are many gluten-free flours available, and brands also offer gluten-free panko that will provide the same crunchy texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For best texture, reheating in the oven helps maintain the crispiness!
Can I Prepare the Coating in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the breadcrumb and cheese coating a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. This saves time when you’re ready to cook!
