This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken brings a wonderful crunch and cheesy flavor to your dinner table. With its golden-brown coating, it’s hard to resist!
Honestly, who doesn’t love crunchy chicken? I often pair this with a simple salad or some mashed potatoes. It’s a winner every time! 🐔✨
I appreciate how quick and easy this recipe is. Just coat the chicken, bake it, and watch it turn crispy and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer. They offer a bit more flavor and are slightly harder to overcook.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. If you want to save some time, pre-grated works too, though it may not melt as smoothly. For a change, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko provides wonderful crispiness. If you can’t find them, regular breadcrumbs are a decent substitute, but the texture will be less crunchy. For gluten-free options, check for gluten-free breadcrumbs!
Garlic Powder: This adds a wonderful flavor depth. If you have fresh garlic, use one clove minced instead. Just be careful not to burn it while baking.
Milk: Regular milk works, but you can use almond milk or any other milk if you’re dairy-free. It helps with moisture and coating the chicken evenly.
How Can You Ensure a Perfectly Crispy Coating?
Achieving a crispy coating is all about how you prepare the chicken and the baking method. Here’s what you need to focus on:
- Make sure the chicken is patted dry before coating. This helps the egg wash stick and creates a better crust.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly in the egg mixture first, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mix. This creates a solid layer that stays on during cooking.
- Drizzling olive oil or melted butter helps the crust brown beautifully while cooking. Don’t skip this step!
- Give them enough space on the baking sheet—crowding can trap steam and make them soggy instead of crisp.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to achieving deliciously crispy Parmesan crusted chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
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 (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20-25 minutes of baking time. In total, you should expect to spend around 35-40 minutes to get your delicious crispy Parmesan crusted chicken ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. This mixture will help the coating stick to the chicken.
3. Prepare the Coating:
In another shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper. This mixture will give a deliciously crispy and flavorful crust!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This step is important for achieving that crispy texture. Next, dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, press the chicken breast into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Be sure to coat both sides thoroughly, pressing gently to help the coating stick well.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Now it’s time to place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they have some space between each piece for even cooking!
6. Drizzle for Crispiness:
Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter evenly over the chicken. This will help the crust turn golden and crispy as it bakes.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye out for that lovely golden-brown color! You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take out the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside. Now it’s ready to be served! Enjoy your crispy Parmesan crusted chicken with your favorite side dishes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for this recipe if you prefer them over breasts. They add a richer flavor and tend to stay juicier. Just note that they may require a slightly longer cooking time, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, to help maintain the crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers for a tasty alternative. Just make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well!
What Should I Serve with Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with pasta, salad, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes. You can also drizzle some marinara or a light sauce over the chicken for added flavor.
