Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Say hello to your new weeknight dinner hero: Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This classic recipe delivers everything you could want in a chicken dish—juicy, tender meat tucked inside a blanket of crisp, golden breadcrumbs and freshly grated parmesan. It’s easy enough for a casual family meal, but impressive enough to serve guests. The best part? It’s ready in no time and pairs beautifully with just about anything!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Parmesan Crusted Chicken is just how simple the ingredient list is. Each component has an essential job, whether it’s infusing juicy flavor, leading to that unforgettable crunchy exterior, or creating those gorgeous golden edges.

• Chicken breasts: Go for two large ones and slice them in half for thin, even cooking and juicy results.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle aromatic kick—just enough to make the chicken sing without overpowering it.
• Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to highlight the chicken and all those delicious crust flavors.
• Flour: Helps the egg and breading stick to the chicken for the perfect crust.
• Eggs: The magical glue that binds your crispy coating to the chicken.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These flakes are key for that extra crunch and toasty texture that set this dish apart.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese: A must for nutty, salty flavor and irresistibly crisp golden edges.
• Italian seasoning: Brings an herbaceous boost and rounds out the crispy coating’s flavors.
• Olive oil: Gives you that beautiful, flavorful browning in both the skillet and oven.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prep Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400F and position the rack in the top third. This ensures the heat gets right to the surface of your chicken for incredible crisping. Setting this up in advance means your transition from stovetop to oven is seamless.

Step 2: Slice and Season the Chicken

Take both chicken breasts and slice them in half lengthwise, so you end up with four thinner pieces. Pat them completely dry with paper towels—dry chicken gives you the best crust. Then, generously sprinkle both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Massage those seasonings in to be sure every bite is flavorful.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Stations

Grab three shallow bowls. Place flour in the first, beat the eggs with a fork in the second, and combine panko, parmesan, and Italian seasoning in the third. Make sure to mix the panko, cheese, and herbs thoroughly for even coating. This setup makes the breading process quick and mess-free.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet

Put 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-proof skillet and set it over medium heat. Give it a few minutes to really heat up so when the chicken hits the pan, it starts crisping up right away. Meanwhile, move on to coating your chicken.

Step 5: Dredge and Bread

Working with one piece at a time, dredge the chicken first in flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally press it into the breadcrumb mixture. Be sure to shake off the excess at each step. Pro tip: designate one hand for wet ingredients and the other for dry to avoid breading everything in your kitchen! Gently press down in the panko-parmesan bowl for maximum crunch stickage.

Step 6: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection

Add two chicken pieces to the hot skillet and cook 2–3 minutes per side, or until gorgeously golden. Flip with tongs for ease. Remove these to a plate, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, and repeat with the other two. Once all pieces are browned, arrange them back in the skillet.

Step 7: Finish in the Oven

Transfer the skillet to the oven for about 5 minutes, just until the chicken is cooked through (look for an internal temp of 165F, if you have a thermometer). This quick oven step ensures the inside stays perfectly juicy while the parmesan crust gets extra crisp!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

No time to wait—serve your Parmesan Crusted Chicken immediately! The contrast between that crunchy, cheesy coating and the tender chicken inside is pure joy on a plate.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese and a scattering of fresh chopped parsley really make this dish pop. Add a squeeze of lemon over the top for brightness and color—those little details make each serving look as special as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This chicken loves company! Serve it with a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or buttery mashed potatoes. If you’re craving something hearty, go for a big bowl of spaghetti aglio e olio or creamy risotto alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the Parmesan Crusted Chicken and pile over a Caesar salad for a bistro-worthy lunch, tuck it inside a sandwich with tomato and basil, or lay slices over a bed of creamy polenta. You can even turn it into chicken parmesan by spooning on a little marinara and bubbling mozzarella, then broiling until melty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper if stacking to keep the crust as crisp as possible.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each fully cooled piece in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and store up to 2 months. For best results, freeze in a single layer until solid, then stack or move as needed to save space.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Parmesan Crusted Chicken in a 375F oven or toaster oven for about 10 minutes, until hot and crisp. Microwaving works in a pinch, but you’ll lose some of that addictive crunch, so the oven is worth the extra step!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! If you prefer dark meat, boneless skinless chicken thighs work beautifully. Just be sure to pound them to an even thickness and check for doneness, as they may take a few minutes longer in the oven.

What’s the best way to keep the crust from falling off?

The key is to thoroughly pat the chicken dry before dredging and press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. Shake off excess liquid and crumbs at each step and avoid flipping too early during pan-frying.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—simply swap out the flour for a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The result will be just as crisp and delicious!

Is it okay to substitute pre-grated parmesan?

For the very best flavor and texture, freshly grated parmesan cheese is ideal. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting and crisping, so grab a block if you can.

How spicy is this Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

As written, the recipe is mild and family-friendly. If you want a kick, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture for some gentle heat.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a parmesan lover or just searching for a mouthwatering new chicken recipe, Parmesan Crusted Chicken is one you’ll want to make again and again. Try it once, and I promise you’ll be fielding requests for seconds—your family and friends are in for a crunchy, cheesy treat!

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