This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a winner! It’s golden, crunchy, and packed with cheesy flavor. You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up!
I love how the crispy coating makes every bite a treat. Pair it with a side salad, and you’ve got a nice meal. Honestly, I could eat this every day—it’s that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey breasts. Thighs work too if you want more flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a great nutty flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano is a nice substitute. Just remember—it’s saltier, so adjust your seasoning!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create that delightful crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they won’t be quite as crispy. Try crushing some crackers or using cornflakes—a fun twist!
Italian Seasoning: This adds a hint of herbs. If you don’t have it, mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme as replacements. Fresh herbs are lovely too if you have them on hand!
How Can I Achieve a Perfectly Crispy Coating?
The key to that crispy coating is all in the preparation and cooking method. Following these steps makes a huge difference:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before cooking. This helps the coating stick better.
- Using a three-step breading station (flour, egg, coating) ensures a thick, crunchy crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; this keeps the temperature consistent, resulting in even cooking.
- Use medium heat. Too high, and you risk burning the coating before the chicken cooks through.
Letting the chicken rest on paper towels after frying helps remove extra oil and keeps it crispy. Enjoy your meal with a touch of lemon for brightness!
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)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 10-12 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to have your crispy chicken ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are thick, you can slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets or pound them to about 1/2 inch thickness. This will help them cook evenly.
2. Make the Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper. This combo will give your chicken a deliciously crispy coating!
3. Prepare the Breading Station:
In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs until they are smooth and well combined. In a third shallow dish, place the flour. You’re all set for the breading process!
4. Dredge the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the extra drip off. Finally, coat it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating stick well.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite sides or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy chicken! It’s sure to be a hit at the dining table!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Just be aware that they may take a minute longer to cook through, so check the internal temperature to ensure it’s 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. This way, you can still enjoy that crispy crust!
Can I Prepare the Chicken in Advance?
Yes! You can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it from drying out!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat to preserve the crispiness, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
