Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works well for extra crunch)
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Flatten Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to gently pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and promotes a tender texture.

Step 2: Season the Breadcrumb Mixture

1. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Dip in Butter: In another shallow dish, pour the melted butter.
2. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, ensuring that it’s fully coated. Then, press each butter-coated chicken breast into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly so the coating adheres well. Repeat with all chicken breasts.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

1. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle the olive oil over each piece of coated chicken. This adds extra flavor and helps achieve a golden, crispy crust.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the coating is golden and crispy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Once baked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve with your favorite sides, such as pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Nutrition Facts (approximate per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 35g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
A: While freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best flavor and texture, pre-grated Parmesan can be used in a pinch. However, avoid using the powdered kind that comes in a shaker, as it doesn’t melt as well.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure that your Parmesan cheese and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Q: What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
A: No problem! You can make your own blend by combining dried basil, oregano, thyme, and a bit of rosemary for a similar flavor profile.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: The best way to ensure the chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read at least 165°F (74°C).

Tips for Success

• Flattening the Chicken Breasts: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook evenly and prevents the outside from drying out while the inside remains undercooked.
• Let the Coating Set: After coating the chicken with breadcrumbs and Parmesan, let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the coating stick better during baking and results in a crispier crust.
• Use a Wire Rack: If you have a wire rack that fits on your baking sheet, place the chicken on it. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, making the coating extra crispy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, be sure to leave enough space between each chicken breast on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause the coating to become soggy.
• Double-Coat for Extra Crunch: For an even crispier coating, dip the chicken in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, then back into the melted butter, and once more into the mixture.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the coating crisp.
• Freezer: To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.

Conclusion

This Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Breast recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. With its perfectly seasoned crust and juicy, tender chicken, this dish offers an unbeatable combination of flavor and texture. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, it’s an easy recipe that brings impressive results. The Parmesan and breadcrumb coating bakes to golden perfection, creating a meal that’s satisfying on its own or as part of a larger spread. Enjoy this versatile dish with pasta, salads, or roasted vegetables, and watch it become a family favorite!