Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Prep time: PT-487359H35M47S
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-487359H35M47S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Chicken breasts (cut into four smaller cutlets for even cooking); Garlic powder; Flour (for dredging the chicken); Egg (for binding the breading to the chicken); Panko breadcrumbs; Italian seasoning; Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best); Olive oil (for frying)

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Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a crispy, golden, and savory delight that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal. The chicken is tender and juicy on the inside, while the exterior boasts a crispy, parmesan-infused coating that gives it an irresistible flavor and texture. Whether you’re making dinner for yourself or a family meal, this recipe is sure to impress!

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Parmesan Crusted Chicken because it’s a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. The crispy, golden crust adds a crunchy contrast to the juicy chicken cutlets inside. The blend of parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and panko breadcrumbs gives the dish a rich, savory flavor that is both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s quick to make, and the oven helps finish off the chicken to perfection without the hassle of over-frying.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts (cut into four smaller cutlets for even cooking)
Garlic powder
Flour (for dredging the chicken)
Egg (for binding the breading to the chicken)
Panko breadcrumbs
Italian seasoning
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
Olive oil (for frying)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise to create four smaller cutlets. Season each cutlet with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
Prepare the dredging station: set up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add flour. In the second bowl, beat an egg to create an egg wash. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then dip it into the egg wash, followed by the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breading sticks.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets in batches and pan-fry until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Once browned, transfer all the cutlets to an oven-proof skillet and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 servings. The preparation time is about 10-15 minutes, and the cooking time is around 15 minutes, including frying and baking.

Variations

Spicy Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture to give it a spicy kick.
Herb-Infused Crust: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil with the breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor.
Cheesy Stuffed Parmesan Chicken: After dredging the chicken, stuff it with mozzarella cheese or your favorite cheese before baking for a melty, cheesy center.

Storage/Reheating

To store, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For reheating, I recommend placing the chicken on a baking sheet and warming it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until it’s heated through. This helps maintain the crispiness of the breading.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work perfectly well. They’ll add a little more juiciness to the dish and have a slightly richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

You can bake the chicken instead of pan-frying, but the breading may not be as crispy. To bake, coat the chicken as usual, place it on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I use store-bought grated parmesan cheese?

While freshly grated parmesan gives the best flavor and texture, you can use store-bought grated parmesan if necessary. Just keep in mind that the flavor might not be as rich.

Can I freeze leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just allow the chicken to cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

To make this gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular flour and panko. The result will still be delicious!

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its crispy, cheesy coating and tender chicken inside, it’s guaranteed to be a family favorite. I love how easy it is to make, and the flavors are always on point. Whether I’m cooking for a crowd or just for myself, this recipe never disappoints!