Parmesan Crusted Chicken: The Ultimate Chicken Recipe
Introduction to Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Are you looking for a simple yet delicious way to prepare chicken? Look no further than this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe! This dish offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for any weeknight dinner, this recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with protein, making it a healthy choice for everyone.
A Personal Story Behind My Parmesan Crusted Chicken Journey
I remember the first time I tried Parmesan Crusted Chicken at a friend’s house. The crispy coating and juicy chicken were a revelation! Since then, I’ve made it countless times, tweaking the recipe to make it my own. It’s now a staple in my kitchen, and I love sharing it with my family. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings everyone together around the dinner table.
What Makes This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Special?
What sets this Parmesan Crusted Chicken apart is the combination of flavors and textures. The panko breadcrumbs create a delightful crunch, while the freshly grated parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor. The use of garlic powder and Italian seasoning enhances the overall taste, making each bite a delicious experience. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish!
The Full Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 heaping teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the rack in the top third of the oven.
- Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides. This step is crucial for ensuring the chicken absorbs all the flavors.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning mixed together. This setup helps with an organized coating process.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a golden crust.
- Coat each chicken piece in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring to shake off any excess at each step. This will help achieve a perfect, crispy coating.
- Add 2 chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Use tongs to flip the chicken easily. Transfer the cooked pieces to a plate once done.
- For the second batch, add the remaining olive oil to the skillet and repeat the frying process. Once all chicken pieces are fried, arrange them in the skillet and transfer it to the oven.
- Bake for 5 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. A meat thermometer is helpful here to ensure perfect cooking.
- Serve immediately. For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice over the chicken before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of pasta. You can also experiment with variations by adding different herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture, or even try incorporating some grated lemon zest for a citrusy twist. This recipe is versatile enough to suit any palate!
Frequently Asked Questions About Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes! You can bake the chicken instead of frying it to make it a bit healthier. Just ensure to grease the baking sheet to help the chicken crisp up.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results to maintain the crispiness.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add even more flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Be sure to check labels for gluten-free status.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: 350
Servings: 4
Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Equipment
- Oven-proof skillet For frying and baking chicken.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts Cut in half lengthwise
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 0.25 cup flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 0.67 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the rack in the top third of the oven.
- Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning mixed together.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat.
- Coat each chicken piece in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring to shake off any excess at each step.
- Add 2 chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Use tongs to flip the chicken easily. Transfer the cooked pieces to a plate.
- For the second batch, add the remaining olive oil to the skillet and repeat the frying process. Once all chicken pieces are fried, arrange them in the skillet and transfer it to the oven.
- Bake for 5 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve immediately. For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice over the chicken before serving.