Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Crispy, Cheesy Delight
Craving a delicious and easy weeknight dinner? Look no further than this baked parmesan crusted chicken! It’s incredibly simple to make, uses common ingredients, and delivers a satisfyingly crispy and flavorful chicken that the whole family will love. Say goodbye to bland chicken and hello to a parmesan-packed delight.
This recipe takes ordinary chicken breasts and elevates them with a coating of parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs. Baking the chicken instead of frying it keeps it healthier without sacrificing any of the crispy, golden-brown goodness. The parmesan cheese melts and creates a beautiful crust that is both savory and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and will become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Chicken
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
* **Crispy and Delicious:** The parmesan crust creates a satisfyingly crispy texture that everyone will enjoy.
* **Healthy(ish):** Baking the chicken keeps it lighter than frying, making it a healthier option without compromising flavor.
* **Versatile:** Serve it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad.
* **Kid-Friendly:** Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, crispy coating.
Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Chicken Breasts:** Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the base of this recipe. Aim for evenly sized breasts for even cooking.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** Freshly grated parmesan cheese is key to the crispy crust. Pre-grated parmesan can be used, but the flavor and texture will be better with freshly grated.
* **Breadcrumbs:** Panko breadcrumbs provide a light and airy texture to the crust. Regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the crust will be denser.
* **Italian Seasoning:** This blend of herbs adds a classic Italian flavor to the chicken.
* **Garlic Powder:** Garlic powder enhances the savory flavor of the dish.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To season the chicken and the parmesan mixture.
* **Eggs:** Eggs help the parmesan mixture adhere to the chicken.
* **Olive Oil (Optional):** A drizzle of olive oil can help the chicken brown and crisp up even more.
**Detailed Ingredient Breakdown:**
* **Chicken Breasts (4):** About 6-8 ounces each. Ensure they are of uniform thickness for even cooking. You can also use chicken cutlets for faster cooking.
* **Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated):** Freshly grated is highly recommended for best flavor and texture. Avoid the pre-shredded stuff in a bag if possible.
* **Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup):** Panko gives a light, crispy texture. If using regular breadcrumbs, you might want to lightly toast them beforehand for a similar effect.
* **Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons):** A pre-mixed blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. You can also make your own blend.
* **Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon):** For that savory garlic flavor. Garlic salt can be used, but reduce the amount of salt you add separately.
* **Salt (1/2 teaspoon):** To taste. Adjust according to your preferences. Kosher salt is preferred.
* **Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon):** Freshly ground black pepper is always best.
* **Large Eggs (2):** Beaten. These help the parmesan mixture adhere to the chicken. A little milk or water can be added to the beaten eggs to thin them out slightly.
* **Olive Oil (1-2 tablespoons, optional):** Adds flavor and helps with browning. Other oils like avocado oil or canola oil can also be used.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Baking Sheet:** A standard baking sheet will work perfectly.
* **Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil:** To line the baking sheet and prevent the chicken from sticking.
* **Shallow Dishes:** For dredging the chicken.
* **Meat Mallet (Optional):** To pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a detailed guide to making perfectly baked parmesan crusted chicken:
**1. Prepare the Chicken:**
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
* If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet. This will ensure they cook evenly. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap before pounding to prevent splattering.
* Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help the parmesan crust adhere better.
**2. Set Up the Dredging Station:**
* In a shallow dish, whisk together the parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This is your parmesan mixture.
* In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs.
**3. Dredge the Chicken:**
* Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated.
* Immediately transfer the chicken breast to the parmesan mixture. Press the chicken firmly into the mixture to ensure it’s completely coated on both sides. Use your hands to gently pat the mixture onto the chicken.
**4. Bake the Chicken:**
* Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
* Drizzle the chicken with olive oil (optional). This will help it brown and crisp up.
* Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the parmesan crust is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
**5. Rest and Serve:**
* Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
* Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
**Detailed Instructions with Tips & Tricks:**
**Step 1: Preparing the Chicken – The Foundation for Success**
* **Pounding for Even Cooking:** Uniform thickness is key to evenly cooked chicken. Thick chicken breasts will cook unevenly, with the outside drying out before the inside is done. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thickness. Place the chicken between sheets of plastic wrap to prevent tearing and splattering. If you don’t have a meat mallet, you can use a rolling pin or even the bottom of a heavy pan.
* **Patting Dry is Crucial:** Excess moisture on the surface of the chicken will prevent the parmesan crust from adhering properly and browning. Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken dry before dredging. Don’t skip this step!
* **Marinating for Extra Flavor (Optional):** For even more flavor, you can marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to a few hours before dredging. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs works well. Be sure to pat the chicken dry after marinating.
**Step 2: Setting Up the Dredging Station – The Assembly Line**
* **Parmesan Mixture Perfection:** Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded parmesan often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting and browning properly. Mix the parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper thoroughly. You can add other herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* **Egg Wash Tips:** Whisk the eggs thoroughly until they are light and frothy. This will help them coat the chicken evenly. You can add a tablespoon of milk or water to the eggs to thin them out slightly.
* **Preventing a Mess:** Use separate hands for the egg wash and the parmesan mixture to prevent clumping and keep your hands clean. Designate one hand for dipping the chicken into the egg and the other for coating it with the parmesan mixture.
**Step 3: Dredging the Chicken – Coating for Crispy Goodness**
* **Egg Wash Coverage:** Ensure the chicken is fully coated in the egg wash. This helps the parmesan mixture adhere properly. Let any excess egg drip off before transferring the chicken to the parmesan mixture.
* **Pressing Firmly:** Press the chicken firmly into the parmesan mixture to ensure it’s completely coated on both sides. Use your hands to gently pat the mixture onto the chicken. Don’t be afraid to really press the parmesan mixture onto the chicken to create a thick, even crust.
* **Double Dredging for Extra Crispiness (Optional):** For an even thicker and crispier crust, you can double dredge the chicken. After the first coating of parmesan mixture, dip the chicken back into the egg wash and then back into the parmesan mixture.
**Step 4: Baking the Chicken – Golden Brown Perfection**
* **Baking Sheet Preparation:** Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This prevents the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup easier. You can also lightly grease the parchment paper or aluminum foil with cooking spray.
* **Olive Oil Drizzle for Browning:** Drizzling the chicken with olive oil (or another oil with a high smoke point) helps it brown and crisp up in the oven. Don’t use too much oil, just a light drizzle will do.
* **Baking Time and Temperature:** Bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the parmesan crust is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
* **Broiling for Extra Crispiness (Optional):** If the parmesan crust isn’t quite as crispy as you’d like after baking, you can broil the chicken for a minute or two at the end. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
**Step 5: Resting and Serving – The Final Touches**
* **Resting for Juiciness:** Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and juicy chicken.
* **Serving Suggestions:** Serve the baked parmesan crusted chicken immediately with your favorite sides. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, pasta, salad, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
* **Use Freshly Grated Parmesan:** As mentioned earlier, freshly grated parmesan cheese is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated parmesan often contains cellulose, which prevents it from melting and browning properly.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet:** Make sure to leave enough space between the chicken breasts on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam instead of bake, resulting in a less crispy crust.
* **Adjust Baking Time as Needed:** The baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts and your oven. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to 165°F (74°C).
* **Add Flavor Variations:** Get creative with the flavor by adding different herbs, spices, or cheeses to the parmesan mixture. Some ideas include red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, or a blend of parmesan and Romano cheese.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
This parmesan crusted chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
* **Pasta:** Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne with marinara sauce or pesto.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad or a more elaborate salad with grilled vegetables and a vinaigrette dressing.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** Classic mashed potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes.
* **Rice:** White rice, brown rice, or wild rice.
* **Lemon Wedges:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors.
Variations and Customizations
* **Spicy Parmesan Chicken:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the parmesan mixture for a little heat.
* **Garlic Parmesan Chicken:** Increase the amount of garlic powder in the parmesan mixture.
* **Herb-Crusted Chicken:** Add other dried herbs to the parmesan mixture, such as dried basil, oregano, or thyme.
* **Different Cheese:** Experiment with different cheeses in the parmesan mixture, such as Romano, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano.
* **Lemon Pepper Chicken:** Add lemon pepper seasoning to the parmesan mixture.
* **Pesto Crusted Chicken:** Spread a thin layer of pesto on the chicken before coating it with the parmesan mixture.
* **Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken:** Brush the baked chicken with honey mustard glaze during the last few minutes of baking.
Make-Ahead Tips
* **Prepare the Chicken in Advance:** You can prepare the chicken up to a day in advance by dredging it and storing it in the refrigerator. Store the dredged chicken in an airtight container or on a plate covered with plastic wrap.
* **Make the Parmesan Mixture in Advance:** The parmesan mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
* **Storage:** Store leftover baked parmesan crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the crust may not be as crispy.
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 20-25 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
* 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
* 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 large eggs, beaten
* 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. If chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
3. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
4. In a shallow dish, whisk together parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs.
6. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then immediately transfer to the parmesan mixture, pressing firmly to coat on both sides.
7. Place coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Drizzle with olive oil (optional).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and parmesan crust is golden brown and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
10. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy this crispy, cheesy, and delicious baked parmesan crusted chicken! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic addition to your regular dinner rotation.