This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a winner! Juicy chicken coated in crunchy Parmesan adds a tasty twist to dinner. It’s easy and fun to make, perfect for any night!
Honestly, who can resist that golden crust? I love serving it with a side of veggies or pasta. You’ll find yourself munching on the crumbs—because yes, they are that good! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are ideal for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay tender. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier meat or if you have them on hand.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese gives the best flavor and crispiness. If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano or a store-bought Italian blend can work in a pinch, but keep in mind these might alter the flavor a bit.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These help achieve a wonderful crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, but they may not be as crispy. You could also use crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
Garlic Powder: This adds flavor, but you could also use minced fresh garlic or garlic salt if you have it. Just adjust the salt quantity accordingly!
What’s the Best Way to Flatten Chicken for Even Cooking?
Flattening chicken breasts is important for even cooking and tenderness. To do this safely:
- Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag. This prevents splatters and keeps your workspace clean.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This ensures quick and even cooking, reducing the risk of dry meat.
Feel free to get creative with your pounding technique, just be gentle to avoid ripping the meat!
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)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes before you can enjoy your tasty chicken dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, get your baking sheet ready by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Flattening the Chicken:
Next, you’ll want to flatten your chicken breasts for even cooking. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or put them in a zip-top bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them to about 1 inch thick. This step is super important for keeping the chicken juicy and tender!
3. Mixing the Coating:
In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix these together so everything is evenly combined and ready to coat the chicken.
4. Preparing the Dipping Stations:
In another shallow dish, whisk your eggs until blended. Set up a third dish with the flour ready for dredging the chicken. This assembly line approach makes coating the chicken much easier!
5. Breading the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast, and first dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off before moving on. Finally, coat the chicken with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to help it stick.
6. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Finishing in the Oven:
Transfer the chicken to your prepared baking sheet and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for another 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures everything is cooked through and safe to eat!
8. Letting it Rest:
After baking, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and delicious.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your crispy Parmesan crusted chicken warm alongside your favorite sides, like a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or pasta. Enjoy every bit of that crunch and flavor!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting regular flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. Look for gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free panko, available in many grocery stores.
Can I Bake the Chicken Instead of Frying It First?
Yes, you can skip the frying step! After coating the chicken, place it directly on the baking sheet and bake it for about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until golden and cooked through, but the crust may be less crispy than frying.
How Should I Store Leftover Crispy Parmesan Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven for a few minutes to crisp it back up, or use the microwave if you’re short on time, though this may make the crust softer.
