This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a real winner! It features juicy chicken breasts coated in a crunchy, cheesy crust that will make your taste buds dance.
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this dish. Just mix the cheese and crumbs, coat the chicken, and bake. Dinner is sorted, and it’s downright delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook evenly and stay juicy. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a fantastic cheesy flavor and texture. For a different taste, you can swap it with Pecorino Romano or even a good Italian blend cheese.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs create a delightful crunch. If panko is not available, regular breadcrumbs will work but may not be as crispy. You can also use crushed crackers as a fun alternative!
Eggs: The eggs help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. If you’re vegan, consider using flaxseed meal mixed with water or a starch-based substitute like cornstarch mixed with water.
How Do I Get Extra Crispy Chicken?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is all about the coating technique and baking method. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Ensure the chicken is dry before coating, as moisture can prevent a crispy crust.
- Use flour first; it helps the egg stick to the chicken, ensuring an even coating.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken. This helps the coating adhere better.
- Drizzling with olive oil or butter before baking helps achieve that beautiful golden color and crispiness.
- Bake on a wire rack set over a baking sheet if you have one, as it allows air circulation for even crisping.
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)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in about 35 minutes, you can have a crunchy, cheesy, and satisfying meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the ideal temperature for getting a nice, crispy crust on your chicken. While it’s heating up, you can prepare everything else!
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create the delicious crust for your chicken.
3. Beat the Eggs:
Crack the large eggs into a separate bowl and whisk them until well beaten. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken.
4. Set Up the Dredging Station:
Place the all-purpose flour in a third shallow bowl. This will be your first step in coating the chicken.
5. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures a crispier coating! Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper for additional flavor.
6. Coat the Chicken:
Start by lightly coating each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra egg drip back into the bowl.
7. Apply the Parmesan Crust:
Now, press the chicken breast into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring all sides are coated. For an extra crunchy crust, press firmly to help the mixture adhere well.
8. Bake the Chicken:
Place the coated chicken breasts on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush the tops lightly with olive oil or melted butter to enhance the flavor and browning. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the crust is golden brown.
9. Let it Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps lock in the juices, making it tender and juicy!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot, and watch everyone enjoy your crispy, golden, and flavorful Parmesan crusted chicken!
Enjoy your delightful meal!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through than breasts.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. This way, you can still enjoy the crispy texture without the gluten!
Can I Cook This in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the coated chicken for about 12-15 minutes. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to crisp them back up!
