This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is an absolute winner! It features juicy chicken breast coated in a crunchy layer of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, making each bite super tasty.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I love serving it with a side of veggies or pasta. It’s a sure way to get everyone at the table cheering for more chicken! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you prefer, chicken thighs can work too, as they’re juicier and tend to stay moist better during cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan provides a great flavor and crust. If you have a dairy sensitivity, try vegan Parmesan, or mix nutritional yeast with breadcrumbs for a similar effect.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give an extra crispy texture, but regular breadcrumbs will also do the job. You can use crushed cornflakes for a unique twist on crunch!
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice flavor boost. If you prefer fresh, use minced garlic instead—but reduce the amount since it’s more potent.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy Inside While Getting Crispy Outside?
The secret to juicy chicken lies in even cooking and the frying step. Start by pounding the chicken to a uniform thickness, ensuring it cooks evenly. Cooking them in a hot skillet creates a crispy exterior while sealing in moisture.
- When searing, use enough oil or butter to cover the bottom of the pan. This promotes even browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; work in batches if needed. Overcrowding can steam the chicken instead of frying it.
- After searing, finishing in the oven helps achieve that perfect crispy texture while cooking the chicken through completely.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 25-30 minutes to cook. With a total time of around 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing. This will help prevent sticking and make clean-up easier later!
2. Prepare the Chicken
Take your chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly, so they’re juicy inside. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper for flavor.
3. Set Up Your Dredging Stations
Grab three shallow dishes. In the first, place all-purpose flour. In the second dish, beat the eggs with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. In your third dish, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for that yummy coating.
4. Coat the Chicken
Now, it’s time to coat the chicken! Take each breast and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat it generously with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing it on so it sticks well.
5. Sear the Chicken
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the coated chicken breasts. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden and crispy. This step is crucial for getting that delicious crunchy texture!
6. Bake to Finish
Once the chicken is nicely browned, transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Pop it in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked while keeping it juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve your crispy, cheesy chicken warm with your favorite sides, and watch everyone enjoy!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add even more juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
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 breadcrumbs. The rest of the recipe will remain the same, allowing you to enjoy the same crispy goodness!
What Should I Serve with Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with pasta, a fresh garden salad, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes to create a well-rounded meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven or toaster oven for the best crispiness, warming at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy it again!
