If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dinner option that is sure to impress your family or guests, this recipe is the answer! As a professional chef, I can tell you that this dish combines tender chicken with a crispy, golden crust made from Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and aromatic herbs. It’s a meal that’s both easy to make and packed with incredible flavors. Let’s dive into how to make the perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home!
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil for frying)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions For Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe:
1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using a cast-iron skillet, you can also use it to cook the chicken on the stovetop before finishing it in the oven.
2: Prepare the Breading Station
To ensure the perfect crust, set up your breading station:
- In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
- In another shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3: Coat the Chicken Breasts
Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Then transfer the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs stick evenly on both sides of the chicken. This creates that irresistible crispy exterior.
4: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. The oil should help form a crispy crust while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
5: Bake to Perfection
Once the chicken is browned on both sides, transfer it to a baking sheet. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This will ensure the chicken is fully cooked but still moist.
6: Serve and Enjoy your Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe!
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan has a stronger flavor and better texture than pre-grated varieties.
- Double Breading: For an even crispier crust, dip the chicken in the egg and breadcrumbs twice!
- Baking Instead of Frying: To cut down on calories, you can skip the frying step and bake the chicken directly in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Add More Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding thyme, basil, or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Serve with a Side: This crispy chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.
FAQs about Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
1. Can I make this Parmesan Crusted Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This will allow the flavors to meld and the crust to firm up.
2. Can I freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Absolutely! After cooking, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
3. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko gives the crust a lighter, crunchier texture that is key to the success of this dish.
4. What dipping sauces pair well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
You can enjoy this dish with a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch dressing, or even a balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.
5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure your chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering Parmesan Crusted Chicken that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy this crispy, cheesy delight for dinner tonight!