This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect mix of crunchy and cheesy goodness. With a golden crust, it will make your taste buds dance with joy!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just coat the chicken, bake, and enjoy a delicious dinner without the fuss. Who knew chicken could be this exciting? 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but you can also use thighs for more flavor and juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs take a bit longer to cook through.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan works best as it melts beautifully and creates a nice crust. If you’re in a pinch, grated Pecorino Romano can be a tasty alternative, giving a stronger flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko provides a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs. If you can’t find panko, use crushed cornflakes or regular breadcrumbs, but the texture will be less crunchy.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and can enhance the crispiness. If you want a lighter option, you can skip it, but a little oil goes a long way in achieving a golden crust.
How Do I Get a Really Crispy Crust?
Getting that perfect crispy crust is all about the coating process. Here are some steps to ensure success:
- Dry the chicken well before coating. This helps the egg wash and breadcrumbs stick better.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken firmly. This ensures the crumbs adhere during baking.
- You can let the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before baking. This helps the coating set!
- If you want extra crunch, lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray before baking.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; every oven is different. The chicken should be golden brown at the edges.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for drizzling or pan-frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy Parmesan crusted chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you can enjoy this delicious dish in about 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for achieving that crispy golden crust. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Whisk the Eggs:
In a shallow bowl, crack your two large eggs and whisk them until they’re nice and smooth. This will be your egg wash to help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
3. Prepare the Coating:
In another shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well blended. This will be the flavorful crust that makes the chicken super tasty!
4. Prep the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is really important because it helps the coating stick better!
5. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first dip it into the egg wash, making sure it’s completely coated. Then, transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick well. You want a good, thick layer of that crispy coating!
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Once coated, place each chicken breast on the baking sheet. Spread them out so they aren’t touching—this helps them cook evenly and get that nice crispiness.
7. Add Healthy Crunch:
If you want an extra crispy texture, you can drizzle a little olive oil over the chicken or lightly spray it with cooking spray. This is optional, but it really helps to achieve that golden look!
8. Bake Your Chicken:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you want the chicken to be cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and a golden crispy crust.
9. Let Rest:
Once they’re done, carefully remove them from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in and ensures a tender bite.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Your crispy Parmesan crusted chicken is ready to be served! Pair it with your favorite sides, like a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, for a complete meal. Enjoy every crunchy, cheesy bite!
FAQs for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and are often more flavorful and juicier. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
How Can I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain the crispiness of the crust.
Can I Bake This Chicken in the Air Fryer?
Yes, using an air fryer is a great option! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.
What Sides Pair Well with Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
This dish pairs nicely with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta tossed in a light garlic and olive oil sauce to complement the flavors.
