Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Parmesan crusted chicken is a weeknight dinner champion: quick, easy, and undeniably delicious. This recipe transforms simple chicken breasts into a flavor-packed masterpiece, boasting a golden-brown, crispy crust bursting with savory Parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy families or anyone craving a satisfying and comforting meal, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a game-changer. Here’s why:

• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry and refrigerator.
• Quick and Easy: From prep to plate, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love the crispy, cheesy coating.
• Versatile: Serve it with your favorite sides, from roasted vegetables to pasta.
• Flavorful: The combination of Parmesan, herbs, and spices creates an irresistible taste sensation.

Mastering the Parmesan Crust: Tips and Techniques

The key to truly exceptional Parmesan crusted chicken lies in the crust itself. Here’s how to achieve the perfect crispy, cheesy coating:

Choosing the Right Parmesan

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is essential for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains cellulose, which can hinder melting and crisping. Opt for a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself using a microplane or box grater.

Creating the Breading Station

Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes:

1. Flour: Lightly coat the chicken breasts with all-purpose flour. This helps the egg wash adhere better.

2. Egg Wash: Whisk together eggs with a splash of milk or water. This adds moisture and helps the Parmesan mixture stick.

3. Parmesan Mixture: Combine grated Parmesan cheese with breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style), herbs (such as Italian seasoning, dried basil, or oregano), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to your preference.

Achieving Maximum Crispiness

• Pound the Chicken: Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and are tender.
• Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels before starting the breading process. This helps the coating adhere better.
• Press the Crust: After dipping the chicken in the egg wash, thoroughly coat it with the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will lower the temperature of the oil and result in steamed, rather than crispy, chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Use a Hot Pan: Ensure your pan is properly preheated before adding the chicken.

Baking vs. Pan-Frying

While pan-frying provides the crispiest crust, baking is a healthier alternative.

• Pan-Frying: Heat olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

Parmesan crusted chicken is a blank canvas for flavor experimentation. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dish:

• Lemon Zest: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the Parmesan mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Smoked Paprika: Substitute some of the paprika with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme in place of dried herbs.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Asiago, Romano, or Pecorino.
• Spice it up: Mix in a little cayenne pepper to your crust for a nice kick.
• Garlic: Use roasted garlic to give the dish an extra layer of flavor.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the crust mixture.

Serving Suggestions and Complementary Sides

Parmesan crusted chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some popular choices:

• Pasta: Serve it with spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne tossed in marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, or pesto.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts make a healthy and delicious side.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food pairing.
• Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of rice (white, brown, or wild) for a complete meal.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Recipe: Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Yields: 4 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). Pat dry with paper towels.

3. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: flour, egg wash, and Parmesan mixture.

4. In a medium bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

5. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess.

6. Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated.

7. Press the chicken into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides evenly.

8. If baking, place breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil. If pan-frying, carefully place chicken breasts in the hot oil.

9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or pan-fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown.

10. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I keep the Parmesan crust from falling off the chicken?

Make sure to thoroughly dry the chicken breasts with paper towels before breading. This allows the flour to adhere better. Also, press the Parmesan mixture firmly onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

While pre-shredded Parmesan can be used, freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting and crisping properly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the breaded chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to cook them right before serving for optimal crispiness.

How do I store leftover Parmesan crusted chicken?

Store leftover Parmesan crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Can I freeze Parmesan crusted chicken?

Yes, you can freeze cooked Parmesan crusted chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What is the internal temperature for cooked chicken?

The internal temperature for cooked chicken should be 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it is cooked through.

What if my chicken is browning too quickly?

If your chicken is browning too quickly while pan-frying, lower the heat to medium. If it’s browning too quickly in the oven, tent it with aluminum foil.