Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is truly a game changer for weeknight dinners. With its crispy golden exterior and juicy, tender chicken inside, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a dinner party or whipping up a quick meal for your family. The delightful combination of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning makes every bite unforgettable. Plus, this baked version means you can enjoy all the crunch without the extra oil from frying!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Breading
• For Garnish
• How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Breading
• Step 3: Slice the Chicken
• Step 4: Coat the Chicken
• Step 5: Bake the Chicken
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• With a Fresh Salad
• On Pasta
• In a Sandwich
• With Roasted Vegetables
• How to Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Reheating Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I make my Parmesan Crusted Chicken more flavorful?
• Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
• What sides pair well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
• How do I know when my Parmesan Crusted Chicken is done?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Crispy and Delicious: The panko and Parmesan create a crunchy coating that elevates the flavor of the chicken.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect as a main dish and pairs well with salads, pastas, or roasted veggies.
• Healthier Alternative: Baked rather than fried, this dish offers a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Great for making ahead and reheating for quick lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Parmesan crusted chicken, gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will streamline your cooking process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Shallow bowls
• Whisk
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the chicken, ensuring it crisps up nicely.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Whisk: Essential for blending ingredients smoothly in your butter mixture.
• Instant-read thermometer: Guarantees that your chicken is cooked safely to the correct internal temperature.

Ingredients

For this flavorful Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Breading

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For Garnish

• Chopped parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

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How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

In a shallow bowl, combine:
1. Melted butter
2. Olive oil
3. Garlic powder

Microwave if needed for about 30 seconds, then whisk until smooth. In another shallow bowl, mix together:
1. Panko breadcrumbs
2. Grated Parmesan cheese
3. Italian seasoning
4. Kosher salt
5. Ground black pepper

Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Slice the Chicken

Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets; this helps them cook evenly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each piece of chicken in the butter mixture:
1. Ensure it’s evenly coated on one side.
2. Transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Flip and coat the other side.
4. Place on the prepared baking sheet and repeat with remaining chicken.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Bake your coated chicken cutlets for about 20 minutes:
1. Flip halfway through cooking time for even browning.
2. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired before serving immediately. Enjoy this deliciously easy dish!

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Parmesan crusted chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your meal and impress your guests.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: Toss together arugula, spinach, and romaine with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Pair with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing for a classic combo.

On Pasta

• Pasta Primavera: Serve the chicken atop a bed of sautéed seasonal vegetables and pasta for a colorful dish.
• Alfredo Sauce: Drizzle creamy Alfredo over fettuccine and place the chicken on top for added richness.

In a Sandwich

• Chicken Parmesan Sandwich: Layer the chicken in a toasted bun with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for a delightful twist.
• Wrap It Up: Roll slices of chicken in a tortilla with greens and your favorite dressing for an easy-to-eat option.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Veggies: Roast carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers tossed in olive oil as a flavorful side that complements the chicken well.

How to Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Achieving the perfect Parmesan crusted chicken is simple with a few key tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for an enhanced flavor profile.
• Crispy Coating: Ensure you press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to achieve maximum crunchiness.
• Even Thickness: Butterfly your chicken cutlets properly to ensure they cook evenly throughout.
• Resting Time: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps retain moisture.
• Optimal Baking Temperature: Maintain the oven temperature at 425°F (218°C) for perfectly crispy results.

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Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Pairing side dishes with parmesan crusted chicken enhances its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with roasted garlic provide comfort alongside crispy chicken.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus lightly steamed adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a healthy balance.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes caramelized in olive oil create a delightful sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots adds crunch and zest to your meal.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the dish beautifully while adding texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Crusted Chicken, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh panko bread crumbs create a better crunch. Always check for freshness before using.
• Not seasoning the chicken: Seasoning the chicken is crucial for flavor. Be sure to add salt and pepper directly to the chicken before coating it.
• Skipping the butter mixture: The butter and oil mix helps the breadcrumbs stick. Don’t skip this step or your coating may fall off during baking.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Leaving space around each piece allows for even cooking and crispiness. Make sure each cutlet has room to breathe on the baking sheet.
• Not checking internal temperature: Ensuring the chicken reaches 165°F is vital for safety and juiciness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be aware it may lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my Parmesan Crusted Chicken more flavorful?

Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to your breadcrumb mixture can enhance flavor. You can also marinate the chicken beforehand for added taste.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko gives a lighter, crunchier texture. Regular breadcrumbs are fine if that’s all you have.

What sides pair well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

This dish goes wonderfully with salads, roasted vegetables, or pasta dishes. Try serving it with a light lemon sauce for extra zest!

How do I know when my Parmesan Crusted Chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best tool here.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to many meals. Whether you serve it with fresh veggies or pasta, it’s sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with spices or herbs that suit your taste!

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