Parmesan Crusted Chicken – This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a golden, cheesy crust for a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful.
Why You’ll Love Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs creates a savory crust that’s irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and only a handful of ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a go-to for any occasion.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
To ensure your Parmesan Crusted Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips:
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese can contain anti-caking agents, which may affect texture and flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the dish.
- Pound the Chicken: Evenly pounding the chicken breasts ensures uniform cooking and prevents dry spots.
- Opt for Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy crust, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They provide a light, airy texture.
- Double Dredge for Extra Crunch: Dip the chicken in the egg mixture and coating twice for a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Don’t Skip Resting Time: Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
Variations to Try
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a versatile recipe with plenty of room for creativity. Here are a few variations:
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture.
- Garlic Lovers: Add minced garlic or garlic powder to the coating for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Cheese Mix: Combine Parmesan with a small amount of shredded mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy crust.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken
The beauty of Parmesan Crusted Chicken is its versatility. Here are some serving ideas:
- Classic Pairing: Serve alongside mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a traditional, hearty meal.
- Light and Fresh: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad and lemon wedges for a lighter option.
- Pasta Night: Add a side of spaghetti tossed in marinara or Alfredo sauce for an Italian-inspired feast.
- Sandwich Style: Slice the chicken and layer it on a ciabatta roll with fresh spinach, tomatoes, and a drizzle of aioli for a gourmet sandwich.
How to Store and Reheat Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Storing
- Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of oil to retain the crispy crust.
- Microwave: While convenient, reheating in the microwave can soften the crust. If you choose this method, do so in short bursts.
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and just as delicious with a Parmesan crust. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re cooked through.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What’s the Best Oil for Frying Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or vegetable oil, works best for frying.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can coat the chicken up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Cook it just before serving for optimal crispiness.
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauces?
Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs well with a variety of sauces, such as marinara, honey mustard, garlic aioli, or even a creamy ranch dressing.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Parmesan Crusted Chicken - This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a golden, cheesy crust for a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful.
Ingredients
For the Breading:
- ⅔ cup seasoned Italian bread crumbs (Progresso recommended)
- ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, chives, or rosemary)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Chicken:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds), pounded to ¼-inch thickness
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of bread crumbs, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Coat each breast in flour, shaking off the excess.
- Dip in the beaten eggs, ensuring an even coating. Let the excess drip off.
- Finally, dredge in the bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat for all chicken breasts.
- Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Plate the chicken and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for a bright, zesty touch.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 527Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 17gCholesterol 202mgSodium 762mgCarbohydrates 29gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 47g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a recipe that checks all the boxes: easy to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly adaptable. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
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