This crispy Parmesan crusted chicken is a real crowd-pleaser! Juicy chicken is covered in a crunchy, cheesy coating that makes each bite deliciously satisfying.
You really can’t go wrong with cheese and crunch, right? It’s perfect for dinners where everyone is hungry. I love serving it with a simple salad—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe for their quick cooking and mild flavor. If you need a substitution, chicken thighs work too—they’re juicier and add a different taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for that rich, cheesy crust. If you don’t have it, consider using Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a milder option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a delightful crunch! If you can’t find panko, traditional breadcrumbs will work in a pinch, but the texture won’t be quite as crispy.
Eggs and Milk: This mixture helps the coating stick. You can swap out the milk with any milk alternative like almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get that Perfect Crispy Coating?
Achieving that crispy coating is crucial for the best results. Here’s how to ensure your chicken comes out perfectly crunchy.
- First, flatten the chicken to the same thickness. This helps it cook evenly and allows the coating to stay crisp.
- When coating, dip the chicken in the egg mixture completely, then press it firmly into the breadcrumb mix. This makes sure each piece is well covered.
- Fry the chicken briefly before baking. This gives a great golden color and starts the crisping process. Just don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
Following these tips will lead to a deliciously crispy crust that everyone will love!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Coating:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Egg Mixture:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious crispy Parmesan crusted chicken will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, including frying and baking. Allow an additional few minutes for resting before serving. Altogether, you can enjoy this delightful dish in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Flatten the Chicken:
Take the boneless chicken breasts and flatten them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures they cook evenly, making them juicy and delicious!
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
4. Prepare the Coating:
In another shallow bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is where all the flavor comes from!
5. Coat the Chicken:
Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture first, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks on nicely.
6. Fry to Golden Perfection:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the coated chicken breasts one by one, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Bake It:
Once the chicken is crispy, transfer them to your prepared baking sheet and put it in the oven. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
8. Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender bite. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you’d like. Serve warm and enjoy your deliciously crispy meal!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just fine and can add even more juiciness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, standard breadcrumbs will do in a pinch. The texture will be less airy and crunchy, but you can try adding a little extra seasoning for flavor!
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the point of baking. Bread the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it for longer if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or a skillet to keep the crust crispy—and enjoy your tasty leftovers!