This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a tasty treat! The tender chicken is coated in a crunchy parmesan crust that adds a wonderful flavor. It’s perfect for dinner any day!
I love how simple this dish is to make. Just coat the chicken, bake until golden, and enjoy. It’s a hit at my table! Who can resist that crispy goodness? 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are tender and cook evenly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which tend to be juicier.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds great flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated works, but it might not be as tasty. Pecorino Romano can also be a nice alternative.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They give the chicken that extra crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but you may lose some of that delightful crispiness.
Mayonnaise: Adding this can really help the coating stick. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or use plain Greek yogurt as a substitute for a healthier choice.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Getting the coating just right is key to this dish! Follow these steps to ensure you achieve that ideal crunch:
- Preparation: Make sure your chicken breasts are patted dry. This step is super important for the coating to cling well.
- Egg Mixture: Whisk the eggs and mayonnaise until smooth and thick. This helps in creating a good base for the breadcrumbs to stick.
- Coating: After dipping in the egg mixture, ensure every part of the chicken is coated in the breadcrumb mix. Press down gently for better adhesion.
- Brushing: Don’t forget to brush the tops with olive oil or butter before baking. This promotes browning and crispiness.
Lastly, baking it at a high temperature ensures that the chicken cooks quickly without drying out while the crust gets beautifully golden. Enjoy your cooking process!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For The Crust:
- 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 black pepper to taste
For The Coating:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional; helps with crust adhesion)
For Brushing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter for brushing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook. All in all, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease so the chicken doesn’t stick.
2. Mix the Egg Coating:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and mayonnaise until it’s nicely combined. This will be your sticky coating that helps the crumbs adhere to the chicken.
3. Combine the Crust Ingredients:
In another shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create that delicious crispy outer layer.
4. Prep the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the coating to stick better.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, making sure to coat it well. Then, dredge it into the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly so the breadcrumbs stick nice and firm.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the coated chicken breasts on the baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out a bit to allow for even cooking.
7. Brush for Crispiness:
Using a brush, lightly coat the tops of the chicken with olive oil or melted butter. This will help them get that lovely crispy golden crust.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want the chicken to be cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the crust to be golden and crunchy.
9. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and savory Parmesan crusted chicken with a side of veggies or your favorite salad. Yum!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for more moisture and a richer flavor. Just keep in mind they may require an extra few minutes of cooking time to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or ground almonds for a crunchy texture. Ensure the other ingredients, like Parmesan cheese, are also certified gluten-free.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help regain its crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and coat it earlier in the day. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
