This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a crowd-pleaser! It features juicy chicken coated with a crunchy layer of parmesan and breadcrumbs. Yum!
The best part? It’s super easy to make! Just coat your chicken, bake it until golden, and enjoy that crispy goodness. You’ll feel like a kitchen superstar! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this recipe due to their lean meat and ease of cooking. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor, or even turkey cutlets!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds amazing flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute, offering a sharper taste. For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast mixed with a bit of plant-based cheese!
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a crunchier texture. If you can’t find them, regular breadcrumbs work too. For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning add a flavorful touch. Feel free to get creative! Try smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
What’s the Best Way to Get a Crispy Coating?
The coating is what makes this chicken crispy! Follow these steps for the best results:
- Start with dry chicken breasts; pat them with paper towels to remove moisture.
- Dredge the chicken in flour to help the egg stick, then dip in the egg, coating it well.
- Finally, press the chicken into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mix firmly to form a thick crust.
For extra crispiness, try lightly brushing the top of the chicken with olive oil before baking. This helps it turn a beautiful golden brown!
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking. In total, you will spend around 35 minutes to enjoy this delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Set Up Your Dredging Station:
Gather three shallow bowls for the breading process. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Prep the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry using paper towels. This will help the coating stick better and keep the chicken juicy.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Now the fun part! Dredge each chicken breast in the flour first, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s well coated. Finally, press the chicken into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a thick layer adheres to both sides.
5. Place on Baking Sheet:
Once all the chicken breasts are coated, place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
6. Optional Olive Oil Brush:
If you’re using olive oil, lightly brush or drizzle the tops of the coated chicken breasts to enhance their crispiness and get that golden brown color.
7. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through (check for an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the crust is beautifully golden and crispy.
8. Rest and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy! Serve hot, and feel free to garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for an added touch.
Enjoy your Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken! It’s a surefire hit at any dinner table!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield an even juicier result. Just ensure they’re boneless and skinless, and adjust the cooking time if needed, as thighs may take a few additional minutes to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. You can also substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, like almond flour or rice flour.
Can I Prepare This Chicken in Advance?
Yes! You can coat the chicken breasts and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly to keep the coating from getting soggy.
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 the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, which will help retain the crispiness.
