This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a hit with its golden, crunchy coating and juicy chicken inside. It’s a simple way to add some excitement to dinner!
You won’t believe how easy it is to make this tasty dish. Just coat the chicken with parmesan and bake. I love serving it with a side salad—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts are great for this recipe, allowing the coating to shine. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use chicken thighs, which are juicier.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor and texture. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano can be a tasty substitute, adding a sharper taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a fantastic crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but the texture won’t be as light. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free panko made from rice.
Eggs: Eggs help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken. If you’re avoiding eggs, you can use a slurry of milk and cornstarch, or even a vegan egg replacement if you prefer.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Achieving a crispy coating involves a few key techniques. Here’s how to ensure your chicken is crunchy and golden every time:
- Make sure to dry the chicken breasts with paper towels before coating. This helps the egg wash and breadcrumbs stick better.
- Be generous when pressing the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken. This ensures a thick and evenly coated crust.
- Drizzle or spray the tops of the chicken with oil before baking. This promotes browning and adds extra crunch.
- Baking at a high temperature (400°F) allows for quicker cooking and better crisping without drying out the chicken.
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Coating:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
Other:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing the baking sheet)
- Cooking spray or additional olive oil for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in total, plan for about 35 minutes from start to finish to have a deliciously crispy chicken dinner ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While your oven is heating up, grab a baking sheet and lightly grease it with 2 tablespoons of olive oil or cooking spray so the chicken doesn’t stick.
2. Whisk the Egg Wash:
In a shallow bowl, crack the 2 large eggs and whisk them together until they’re well combined. This egg wash will help the coating stick to the chicken.
3. Make the Coating Mixture:
In another shallow dish, mix together 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will create a deliciously crispy coating!
4. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any moisture, which helps the coating stick better. Now, dip each chicken breast into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Next, transfer the egg-coated chicken breasts to the breadcrumb mixture. Press the mixture onto each chicken breast, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Getting that crust nice and thick is key to a crispy finish!
6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place each coated chicken breast on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out a little. For an extra crispy coating, lightly drizzle or spray some olive oil on top of each piece.
7. Bake It Up:
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know the chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden and crunchy.
8. Let It Rest:
Once baked, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in, making it extra tasty!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice, serve, and enjoy your Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken warm! Pair it with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or even some creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Parmesan crusted chicken!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be just as delicious and they tend to be juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply swap out the regular panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko. Make sure to double-check all other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best texture. You can also use the microwave, but it may soften the coating.
Can I Make the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can coat the chicken breasts in advance and refrigerate them for up to a few hours before baking. This can actually help the coating adhere better, leading to an even crispier crust!
