Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

If you're looking for a simple yet delicious chicken dish that's both crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is just what you need. Made with tender chicken breasts coated in a crunchy Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, this dish is packed with flavor and texture. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to impress guests at a dinner party. Best of all, it’s easy to make and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Keep reading for the step-by-step recipe and some tips for creating the perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delicious dish where chicken breasts are coated in a mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then either pan-fried or baked to crispy perfection. The Parmesan adds a nutty, savory flavor, while the breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch. The chicken stays juicy inside thanks to a quick cooking method that locks in moisture. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

Ingredients List for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter, for pan-frying)
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

These simple ingredients come together to create a deliciously crunchy and flavorful crust for the chicken. The Parmesan cheese adds richness, while the seasonings bring depth to every bite.

Ingredients List for Optional Add-ins and Sides

While Parmesan Crusted Chicken is amazing on its own, you can pair it with various sides or include add-ins to make the meal more exciting:

• Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or green beans are perfect for a healthy side.
• Pasta: Serve the chicken over pasta with marinara or Alfredo sauce for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
• Salad: A light Caesar salad or mixed greens can help balance the richness of the chicken.
• Potatoes: Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes would complement the chicken beautifully.

Feel free to get creative with sides to round out the meal!

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to make adjustments based on your dietary preferences or available ingredients:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb version.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese substitute to make the dish dairy-free.
• Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
• Baked Version: For a healthier option, bake the chicken instead of pan-frying (instructions below).

These variations allow you to customize the dish while maintaining its delicious flavors.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through how to make Parmesan Crusted Chicken step by step:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If your chicken breasts are thick, place them between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps the chicken cook evenly and ensures that the crust crisps up perfectly.

Step 2: Set Up a Dredging Station

In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg. In a separate shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated. Then press the chicken into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, coating it evenly on both sides. Press the mixture firmly onto the chicken to help it adhere.

Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken is done, serve it immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a pop of freshness. The lemon juice adds a bright contrast to the rich Parmesan crust.

How to Bake Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Optional)

For a healthier, baked version of Parmesan Crusted Chicken, follow these simple instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the chicken as outlined in Steps 1-3 above.
3. Place the coated chicken breasts on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Lightly spray the top of the chicken with cooking spray (or drizzle a little olive oil) to help the crust crisp up.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature) and the crust is golden and crispy.

Baking the chicken is a great alternative if you want to cut down on the amount of oil used or prefer a more hands-off cooking method.

How to Cook Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of how to make Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

1. Prepare the chicken by pounding it to an even thickness.
2. Set up a dredging station with egg and Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.
3. Coat the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs, pressing the mixture onto the chicken.
4. Pan-fry the chicken until golden and crispy, or bake for a healthier option.
5. Serve and garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.

This method guarantees crispy chicken with a delicious Parmesan crust!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

• Not Pounding the Chicken: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking, with the thicker parts of the chicken staying undercooked while the thinner parts are overcooked. Be sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many chicken breasts at once can lower the heat of the skillet, resulting in a soggy crust. Cook in batches if necessary, and wipe out the skillet between batches if needed.
• Burning the Crust: Parmesan can burn quickly, especially if the heat is too high. Keep the heat at medium and check the chicken regularly to prevent the crust from burning.

Avoiding these mistakes will help you achieve perfectly crispy, golden Parmesan crusted chicken every time.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your Parmesan Crusted Chicken can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are some ideas:

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• With Pasta: Serve the chicken over spaghetti with marinara sauce or Alfredo sauce for a classic Italian-style meal.
• With Vegetables: Pair the chicken with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.
• In a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it on top of a crisp Caesar salad for a lighter option.
• In a Sandwich: Use the chicken to make a crispy chicken sandwich by adding lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise on a toasted bun.

Presentation Ideas for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color.
• Serve on a large platter with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.
• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or marinara sauce over the top for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you make the best Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Grating your own Parmesan cheese will give you the best flavor and texture compared to pre-grated cheese.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken ahead of time by breading it and storing it in the fridge for up to a few hours before cooking. This helps the crust adhere better when it’s time to cook.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe is great for meal prep. Double the batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy crust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They may need a little more time to cook through, so be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain the crispy crust.

Conclusion

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy, golden Parmesan coating and juicy chicken inside, it’s a meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, vegetables, or salad, this dish is versatile and easy to customize. Try this recipe tonight, and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home!

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