Ingredients

Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless (pounded to an even thickness)
• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Pepper: 1/2 tsp
• Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
• Paprika: 1/2 tsp

Parmesan Crust Topping

• Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded
• Provolone Cheese: 1/4 cup, shredded
• Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/4 cup
• Butter: 1 tbsp, melted
• Garlic Powder: 1/4 tsp
• Fresh Parsley or Chives: for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp of salt, 1/2 tsp of pepper, 1 tsp of garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp of paprika. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

3. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts.
4. Sear Each Side: Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step doesn’t fully cook the chicken but gives it a nice golden crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.

Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Crust Topping

5. Mix the Topping Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of shredded parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of shredded provolone cheese, 1/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon of melted butter, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir until well blended.

Step 4: Top and Bake

6. Add Topping to Chicken: Spoon the parmesan mixture evenly over each chicken breast, spreading it to cover the top of the chicken completely.
7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baking sheet with the chicken in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The parmesan crust should be golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

8. Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and flavor.
9. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with a side of vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 7g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 26g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute provolone with mozzarella for a mild flavor, or even sharp cheddar for a tangy taste. Just ensure that it melts well and complements the parmesan.

2. What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs. Panko adds extra crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs will also work well in this recipe.

3. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can season and sear the chicken, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Add the parmesan crust topping just before baking for the best results.

4. How can I make this recipe lighter?

To make a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for the topping. This will reduce the fat and calorie content while still providing a creamy texture.

5. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or omitting the breadcrumbs entirely. Everything else is naturally gluten-free.

Tips for Making the Perfect Parmesan-Crusted Chicken

1. Pound the Chicken Evenly: For uniform cooking, make sure each chicken breast is evenly pounded. This prevents thicker parts from being undercooked while thinner areas become overdone.
2. Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken before baking locks in moisture and creates a great base for the crust. It also speeds up the cooking process, which helps the parmesan topping stay golden and crispy without burning.
3. Toast the Breadcrumbs (Optional): If you like extra crunch, you can toast the panko breadcrumbs with a little butter in a skillet before mixing them with the cheese topping.
4. Check the Temperature: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Overcooking can make the chicken dry, especially with breast meat.
5. Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Store leftover parmesan-crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or in a skillet to maintain the crust’s texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken after it’s fully cooked. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• Reheating: Avoid the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy. For the best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy.

Conclusion

Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Breasts offer a delicious combination of juicy chicken with a cheesy, golden crust that’s sure to please any crowd. The simple ingredients and straightforward process make it a quick yet impressive dish for both family meals and gatherings. With its rich flavors and satisfying crunch, this chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, from creamy mashed potatoes to a simple green salad.

This recipe’s versatility also allows for easy adjustments based on dietary needs and preferences, making it a great go-to meal that you can make your own. Try out this Parmesan-Crusted Chicken for your next meal, and enjoy the delicious, restaurant-quality flavors from the comfort of your kitchen. Bon appétit!