If you are craving a dish that is irresistibly crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It combines the crunchy texture of golden Panko breadcrumbs with the rich, nutty taste of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, all perfectly seasoned and baked to juicy perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe delivers satisfying comfort with a touch of elegance that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in transforming ordinary chicken breasts into a mouthwatering delight. From the creamy melted butter that helps create that crispy crust, to the Italian seasoning that brings a burst of aromatic herbs, every component adds depth and texture.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted): Acts as a moist binder for the coating and adds richness without overpowering the cheese.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Brings subtle, savory warmth to the flavor profile.
- ¼ tsp onion powder: Enhances the taste with a gentle, slightly sweet savory note.
- ¾ cup Panko breadcrumbs: Provides an airy, crunchy crust that stays crisp after baking.
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers an unmistakable nutty, salty flavor essential to the dish’s signature taste.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that gives the chicken a lovely Mediterranean flair.
- ½ tsp kosher salt: Balances all the flavors and helps to tenderize the chicken.
- ½ tsp ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and sharpness for flavor contrast.
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin): Ensures quick, even cooking and juicy tenderness.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F, which is perfect for crisping the crust without drying out the chicken. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy—this simple prep sets the stage for success.
Step 2: Mix the Butter and Spices
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the melted butter with garlic powder and onion powder. This flavorful buttery mixture not only adds moisture but also acts as the glue for the breadcrumb coating, infusing every bite with aromatic goodness.
Step 3: Combine the Crunchy Coating
In a separate shallow bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. This combination creates a beautifully balanced crust that is both crispy and full of savory notes.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dip each thinly pounded chicken breast into the butter mixture, then dredge thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure both sides are well coated. This double-dip process enables the crust to stick firmly, resulting in an even, golden finish after baking.
Step 5: Arrange and Add Extra Topping if You Like
Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. For an extra crunch and an even cheesier bite, sprinkle a bit more breadcrumb mixture on top of each piece before baking.
Step 6: Bake Until Perfectly Crispy and Juicy
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken turns golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes post-bake—this crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your Parmesan Crusted Chicken juicy and tender.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
After resting, slice the chicken breasts as desired. The crispy crust combined with the tender meat inside makes every slice irresistible.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of fresh, vibrant color and a hint of herbal brightness that brilliantly contrasts the rich, cheesy crust. A lemon wedge on the side is a fantastic option for a quick zesty kick.
Side Dishes
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken shines when paired with simple sides like a crisp green salad, garlic mashed potatoes, or steamed roasted vegetables. Each choice complements the chicken’s texture without overpowering its rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving slices of this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe over a bed of creamy risotto or tossed pasta for a comforting meal. Alternatively, use the chicken as a hearty topping on fresh arugula or mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette for a delightful contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crust remains reasonably crispy, and the flavors actually deepen, making for a delicious next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
If you want to store this Parmesan Crusted Chicken longer, freeze the cooked chicken breasts individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months without losing their flavorful charm.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in the Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and offer slightly richer, juicier meat. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch, but they won’t provide quite the same light, airy crunch. For a gluten-free option, crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes make a great alternative.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and swap the butter for a plant-based spread or olive oil. The flavor and texture will vary slightly but still be delicious.
Can I prepare the coated chicken ahead of time for baking later?
Yes, you can coat the chicken and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before baking. Just bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven for even cooking.
What’s the best way to pound chicken breasts thin for this recipe?
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large resealable bag and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about ½ inch thick. This ensures even cooking and tender results.
Final Thoughts
Give this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe a try, and you’re in for a treat that balances crispy, cheesy goodness with juicy chicken in every bite. It’s a straightforward recipe that turns simple ingredients into a comforting, elegant dish perfect for any night of the week. Once you taste it, I guarantee it’ll become one of your go-to meals to impress friends and family alike.
Print
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe offers a deliciously crispy and flavorful meal, featuring tender chicken breasts coated with a savory blend of panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress at any dinner table.
Ingredients
Butter Mixture
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted, 1 stick; reduce added salt if using salted butter)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
Coating Mix
- ¾ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
Main Ingredient
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. This mixture will help the coating adhere to the chicken and add flavor.
- Mix Coating Ingredients: In another shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. This dry mixture creates a flavorful and crunchy crust.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each pounded chicken breast into the butter mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Then dredge the chicken breasts in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well on both sides.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. For extra crunch and flavor, optionally top each breast with additional breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crisp. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain its juiciness.
- Serve: Slice the chicken breasts and serve immediately. This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and taste; pre-grated cheese can be too fine and less flavorful.
- Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness helps them cook evenly.
- Letting the chicken rest after baking makes it juicier and more tender.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
