This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a tasty dish that’s crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It’s made with chicken breasts coated in a mix of bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese!
I love how easy it is to whip up this meal. Just bake it in the oven and let the magic happen. Perfect for dinner with a side salad, or maybe even for a cozy movie night! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook evenly and stay juicy. You can swap them with chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as dark meat may need a bit longer.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan greatly enhances the taste. If you want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Pecorino Romano is a good substitute too, offering a slightly sharper taste.
Panko Bread Crumbs: Panko gives a delightful crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular bread crumbs can work, but they won’t be quite as crunchy. You could also crush crackers or use crushed cornflakes for a different twist.
Olive Oil or Butter: This is for brushing the chicken for extra crispiness. I often use olive oil for a healthier twist, but melted butter can add delicious flavor. You can also use cooking spray if you’d like to reduce fat.
How Can I Get the Crispiest Crust?
Getting that perfect crispy crust requires a few simple tricks. The key is in the coating and the baking method.
- Start by drying your chicken well. Patting it dry lets the crust stick better and keeps it crispy.
- Follow the dredging process: flour first, then egg, and finally the bread crumb mix. This layering locks in that crunch.
- Press down firmly when coating, ensuring the mixture adheres. A thicker layer usually results in more crunch!
- Drizzle with oil or melted butter before baking. This not only helps with browning but also adds more flavor.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet. Space allows hot air to circulate, resulting in an even bake.
- For extra crispiness, consider broiling for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy Parmesan crusted chicken every time!
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter for brushing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, so you’ll have delicious Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken ready in roughly 35 minutes. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken will cook evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Your Dry Ingredients:
In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture is what will give your chicken its deliciously crispy crust.
3. Prepare Your Dredging Station:
In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. Place the flour in a third shallow dish, ready for coating the chicken.
4. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better. Lightly season both sides of each breast with salt and pepper.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. This step helps the egg wash stick better. Next, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip off. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly in the Parmesan and bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crust adheres well.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the tops of the chicken. This will help them become golden and crisp while baking.
7. Bake for Perfect Crispy Chicken:
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy. To ensure it’s perfectly cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for juicy chicken. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy chicken!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a more flavorful alternative. Just be mindful that they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free! Use gluten-free panko bread crumbs and all-purpose flour. Just check the packaging to ensure the products meet your dietary needs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain its crispy texture.
Can I Freeze the Chicken Before Cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the coated chicken before baking! Place the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. They can be cooked from frozen; just increase the baking time by a few minutes.
