What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken? What is the best thing about a weeknight meal? It tastes like you spent way more time on it than you actually did. I swear, this recipe rivals any fancy chicken dish you’d order at a restaurant, but it’s not fancy. You’ll be able to eat it all in one sitting. What are some of the easiest recipes to whip up at home? Think of it as the sophisticated cousin to regular breaded chicken – that familiar comfort, but with a twist. What are some of the best crispy extras you’ve ever had? What is the best way to elevate your chicken game? What is this recipe for? What are some of the best parmesan crusted chicken recipes? Is it a win-win situation?
What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Alright, let’s break it down. Parmesan Crusted Chicken is essentially Chicken Breasts that are coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then baked or pan-fried until golden brown and crispy. Think of it as a fancy upgrade to your basic breaded chicken cutlet. It’s essentially taking the best parts of chicken parmesan and making it even easier (and arguably more delicious!). The name really says it all, doesn’t it? The star is the Parmesan cheese – it provides a salty, nutty flavor and a beautiful, crispy crust that’s hard to resist. It’s a simple concept, but the execution is key. With the right technique and quality ingredients, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish that everyone will love. It’s also super adaptable – you can adjust the seasonings to your liking and even add a touch of spice if you’re feeling adventurous.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? This Parmesan Crusted Chicken is my absolute go-to for so many reasons! What I love most is how incredibly flavorful it is. The Parmesan cheese creates this amazing salty, savory crust that’s just bursting with flavor. It’s seriously addictive. But it’s not just about the taste; it’s also unbelievably easy to Make. Seriously, even on my busiest weeknights, I can get this on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s a true lifesaver! Plus, it’s so budget-friendly. Chicken breasts are a pretty affordable protein, and Parmesan cheese, while maybe a bit pricier than other cheeses, adds so much flavor that you don’t need a ton of it. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! You can serve it with pasta, salad, roasted veggies, or even on a sandwich. It’s a blank canvas for deliciousness. I honestly prefer this over classic Chicken Parmesan sometimes because you get all that cheesy flavor without the heavy sauce. This recipe just stands out in a way that others don’t.
How do I make Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Quick Overview
How do I make Parmesan Crusted Chicken? What are some good Parmesan cheese recipes? What are some good ways to cook chicken breasts in Parmesan? What should I do if I want to cook them until golden brown and crispy? What is the beauty of this method? What is the best way to cook chicken? Plus, the baking method keeps the chicken moist and tender while creating that irresistible crispy crispy. How quickly it comes together, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each). Make sure they are the same size for even cooking. I like to use organic chicken when I can find it on sale. Can you use chicken tenders if you prefer, just reduce the cooking time slightly?
1 teaspoon salt.
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper.
For the Coating:
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated is always best for flavor and texture, but you can use the pre-grated kind in a pinch. Just make sure it’s finely grated so it adheres to the chicken properly.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs are the key to that extra-crispy crust. They are lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs, so they create a better texture.
1 teaspoon garlic powder.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick).
For the Egg Wash:
What is the best way to make a large egg?
2 tablespoons milk or cream. I’ve even used almond milk when I was out of dairy milk, and it worked great! It adds a little richness and helps the egg wash adhere to the chicken.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. How do you prevent chicken from sticking to your hands? I always spray the parchment with cooking spray, just to be extra safe. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put the chicken in. How does the crust get crispy?
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
How do you pat Chicken Breasts dry with paper towels? If the chicken is too wet, the coating won’t stick properly. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with seasoning! What is the best way to add flavor to chicken?
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. What is the best way to use Red Pepper flakes? Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. How do you customize your flavor to your liking? Add a pinch of smoked paprika for smoky flavor, or some dried oregano for herbaceous taste.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. Set aside. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. The egg wash acts as a glue, helping the Parmesan mixture adhere to the chicken.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
How do you dip chicken breasts in egg wash? Then, dredge it in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Repeat this process with all the chicken breasts. Make sure the chicken is fully coated in Parmesan mixture. What you want is a nice, even layer of crispiness.
Step 6: Bake
Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can tent the baking sheet with foil to prevent it from sticking.
Step 7: Rest & Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. What is the best way to redistribute Chicken Breast juices? Serve immediately and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
Where the fun starts? What is the best thing about Parmesan Crusted Chicken? Serve it with pretty much anything you like.
What is a good weeknight meal?Serve with roasted vegetables, like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. What is a good Salad Dressing? What is my go-to when I need something quick and healthy on the table?
For a More Elegant Dinner: For an elegant dinner:Pair it with a creamy pasta dish, like Fettuccine Alfredo or spaghetti carbonara. Can you serve chicken over a bed of risotto? What is a perfect dinner party favor?
For a casual lunch:What are some good ways to make a chicken sandwich? What’s your favorite pesto sauce?
My family loves it with garlic mashed potatoes and a simple green bean salad. What is a comforting meal? What are some of the best chicken recipes?
How do I make Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
What are some insider tips that will take your Parmesan Crusted Chicken to the next level? I’ve made this recipe countless times, and I have learned a few tricks along the way.
What is ParmesanFreshly grated Parmesan cheese is always best for flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, you can use the pre-grated kind. Just make sure it’s finely grated so it adheres to the chicken properly.
Panko Breadcrumbs Panko breadcrumbs are the key to that extra-crispy crust. They are lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs, so they create a better texture. You can find them in most grocery stores.
Don’t Overcook: The most common mistake people make is overcooking the chicken. This will result in dry, tough chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Baking Sheet: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper or foil is essential for preventing the chicken from sticking and making cleanup a breeze. I always spray the parchment with a little cooking spray, just to be extra safe.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or some dried oregano for a more herbaceous taste. You can also add some grated lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Even Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before coating. This will ensure that they cook evenly and prevent some parts from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
One trick I learned the hard way? Don’t skip patting the chicken dry. Excess moisture prevents the coating from sticking properly and makes it less crispy. Trust me on this one!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Okay, so you’ve made a batch of this amazing Parmesan Crusted Chicken, and you have some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s How to store and reheat it to keep it tasting its best.
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving the chicken at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before storing it. This will prevent condensation from forming, which can make the chicken soggy.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips: To reheat the chicken, you can use the oven, microwave, or air fryer. For the best results, I recommend reheating it in the oven or air fryer. This will help the crust stay crispy. To reheat in the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake the chicken for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat in the air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is the quickest option, but it can make the crust soggy. To microwave, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
I usually don’t glaze it if I’m planning to freeze it. I find that adding the glaze after reheating gives it a fresher taste. It’s a little extra step, but totally worth it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for Parmesan Crusted Chicken! I truly believe this recipe is a game-changer, especially for those busy weeknights when you need something quick, easy, and delicious. The combination of the crispy Parmesan crust and the tender, juicy chicken is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can serve it with a variety of sides, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other easy chicken dishes. I have a few that are similar in ease and flavor, like my Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and my Garlic Butter Chicken. Happy cooking, everyone! And please let me know in the comments how your Parmesan Crusted Chicken turns out. I can’t wait to hear your feedback and see your own variations!
Best 7 Secrets to Perfect Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Pounded to 0.5 inch thickness
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup Mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup Sour cream
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
- Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
