This crispy Parmesan crusted chicken is a fun and tasty dish that’s sure to impress. Coated in cheesy goodness and baked to golden perfection, it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just coat the chicken, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. Your family will think you’re a gourmet chef! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts make for a lean option. If you’re looking for something different, try using chicken thighs for a juicier flavor. You could also use turkey cutlets for a unique twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a must for that crispy, cheesy crust. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Just remember, it has a stronger flavor!
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. If you want a gluten-free option, try using crushed almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Garlic Powder: This adds a lovely flavor, but you could use fresh minced garlic or garlic salt instead. Just be mindful of the salt content if using garlic salt.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Crispy?
To get your chicken perfectly crispy, follow these simple tips:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before coating. Extra moisture can prevent a crispy texture.
- Coat the chicken evenly in the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture; this prevents clumping of the crust.
- Drizzle olive oil or melted butter on top before baking. This helps the breadcrumbs toast perfectly!
- Bake at a high temperature (400°F) to achieve that golden brown crust quickly. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can cause steaming instead of crisping.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow juices to settle, keeping it tender inside. Enjoy your crispy chicken!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Cooking spray or additional olive oil for baking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy Parmesan crusted chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. Overall, you can have this delicious meal ready in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, get your baking sheet ready by either lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs together until they’re well combined. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken.
3. Mix the Coating:
In another shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well blended.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Next, take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the coating stick better. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, making sure it gets fully coated. Then, press it into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, covering all sides evenly for that crispy crust.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Place the coated chicken breasts on your prepared baking sheet. To help them crisp up nicely, drizzle the tops with olive oil or melted butter. If you like, you can also spritz them with cooking spray for a little extra crunch.
6. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the crust is a beautiful golden brown.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is baked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices locked in, so your chicken stays nice and juicy. Serve the crispy Parmesan crusted chicken with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, salad, or mashed potatoes, and enjoy!
Enjoy your easy, crispy Parmesan crusted chicken! It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The safest way to do this is by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or using the defrost setting on your microwave.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this crispy chicken gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds for that extra crunch. Make sure to check the labels of all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano works as a great substitute due to its similar texture and flavor. Alternatively, you can use a different hard cheese like Grana Padano or even a blend of shredded mozzarella and cheddar for a different twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This will help keep that crispy texture!
