This Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Breast recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make main dish perfect for weeknight dinners or even special occasions. Each chicken breast is coated with a golden, crunchy crust made from Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic for extra flavor. Not only does this dish have incredible texture and taste, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from pasta and salads to roasted vegetables.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for extra crunch)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the coating mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
- Season the chicken: Lightly season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Dip in butter: Pour the melted butter into a separate shallow dish. Dip each chicken breast into the butter, coating both sides.
- Coat with breadcrumb mixture: Press each butter-coated chicken breast into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to ensure an even layer sticks to the chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the oil: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Sear the chicken: Cook each chicken breast for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. This will help create a crispy crust and lock in the flavor.
- Transfer to the oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden and crispy.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve the Parmesan-crusted chicken hot with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the crispy texture and savory flavors!
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, 1 chicken breast)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Sodium: 340mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and offer a juicier texture. Cooking time may need to be slightly adjusted, as thighs can take a few minutes longer to cook.
Q2: Can I bake the chicken without searing first?
Yes, you can bake the chicken directly, but searing it first creates an extra-crispy crust and adds more depth of flavor.
Q3: Can I use store-bought seasoned breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! However, if using seasoned breadcrumbs, adjust or omit additional salt and seasoning.
Tips for Making the Best Parmesan-Crusted Chicken
- Use Panko for extra crunch: Panko breadcrumbs are larger and lighter than regular breadcrumbs, giving a crispier texture to the chicken.
- Avoid over-baking: Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken stays juicy.
- Try different seasonings: Italian seasoning is classic, but you can also add paprika, dried basil, or even a dash of cayenne for a bit of heat.
- Butter adds richness: Dipping the chicken in butter before coating adds a subtle richness and helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere better.
Storage Tips
Refrigerating
Store any leftover Parmesan-crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken breasts by wrapping each one individually in plastic wrap, then storing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.
Conclusion
This Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Breast recipe brings together a delightful crunch, savory flavors, and juicy tenderness in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, it’s versatile and easy to pair with various sides, whether you’re serving a light salad or a cozy pasta dish. Try this simple recipe to elevate your chicken dinner and enjoy a delicious meal that feels like a restaurant-quality dish right at home!