Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a dish where chicken breasts are coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices, then fried or baked until crispy. The Parmesan adds a rich, cheesy flavour, while the breadcrumbs create a satisfying crunch. This easy-to-make dish is a favourite for anyone who enjoys crispy, flavourful chicken.
The preparation time for Parmesan Crusted Chicken is about 10-15 minutes. Cooking it in a skillet takes around 8-10 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Overall, you can expect to have a tasty, homemade meal ready in 30 minutes or less.
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a hit for quick weeknight meals. The crispy texture from the breadcrumb coating and the depth of flavour from the Parmesan cheese make it a crowd-pleaser. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a simple salad, making it a versatile meal that suits all tastes. The simplicity of the recipe makes it a go-to for busy days when time is tight but you want a delicious, home-cooked meal.
Why You’ll Love It Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Deliciously Crispy Texture: Parmesan Crusted Chicken offers a crispy, golden-brown coating with a satisfying crunch. The parmesan cheese creates a rich, savoury crust, giving each bite a burst of flavour.
- Simple and Quick to Prepare: This recipe is perfect for busy nights. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, Parmesan Crusted Chicken can be on your table in under 30 minutes, making dinner stress-free.
- Versatile and Flavorful: You can easily pair Parmesan Crusted Chicken with a variety of sides. Its bold flavour complements everything from fresh salads to creamy mashed potatoes, making it a meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredient Notes for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy, chicken breasts are the star of this dish. They cook quickly and soak up all the flavours from the crispy coating.
- All-Purpose Flour: A light dusting of flour helps the egg wash adhere to the chicken, ensuring a crisp and golden crust.
- Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the binder for the breadcrumbs and Parmesan mixture, giving the crust its signature crunch.
- Breadcrumbs: Choose plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for the coating. They add a crisp texture and help lock in the juiciness of the chicken.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the chicken a salty, nutty flavour and a golden-brown crust that’s the hallmark of this dish.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savoury depth of flavour to the crust, enhancing the overall taste of the chicken without overpowering it.
- Dried Oregano: This herb brings a touch of earthiness and a mild aromatic flavour to the chicken crust.
- Dried Basil: Another herb to brighten the flavour of the crust with its slightly sweet and peppery notes.
- Salt and Pepper: These essential seasonings enhance all the ingredients and bring out their natural flavours.
- Olive Oil: Used for pan-frying or baking the chicken, olive oil helps create a crispy, golden crust while adding richness.
Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch
When making Parmesan Crusted Chicken, use fresh ingredients for the best flavour. Always choose high-quality Parmesan cheese for a crisp, golden crust. The cheese adds a rich, savoury taste that makes each bite irresistible. Fresh herbs can also enhance the flavour, adding a personal touch.
Make sure to season the chicken well before breading it. Use salt, pepper, and other spices to bring out the natural flavours. A little garlic powder or paprika can add depth to the crust. This simple step ensures the chicken is flavourful all the way through.
For an extra crispy crust, consider double-coating the chicken. After dipping it in the egg wash and breading, give it another dip in the mixture. This creates a thick, satisfying crust that holds up well during cooking. It will stay crispy longer, even after cooling.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Variation
You can easily modify Parmesan Crusted Chicken to suit different tastes. Here are a few variations:
- Herbed Parmesan Crust: Add dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Parmesan Crust: Mix in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or chili powder to give your chicken a spicy kick.
- Garlic Butter Parmesan Crust: Before baking, drizzle melted garlic butter over the crusted chicken for a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the Parmesan.
- Vegetarian Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Replace the chicken with thick slices of zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian version of this dish.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to serve alongside:
- Pasta: Serve with spaghetti or fettuccine for a classic Italian meal.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh salad, such as a Caesar salad or mixed greens, for a lighter option.
- Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or broccoli make a great side to balance the richness of the chicken.
- Rice: A side of creamy risotto or garlic mashed potatoes works wonderfully with Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, you can store Parmesan Crusted Chicken to enjoy later.
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to store it longer, freeze the chicken. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
FAQs About Parmesan Crusted Chicken
How do you make Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
To make Parmesan Crusted Chicken, coat chicken breasts in seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then bake or fry them until golden brown. You can add herbs and spices for extra flavor.
Can you make Parmesan Crusted Chicken in the oven?
Yes, you can bake Parmesan Crusted Chicken in the oven. Simply place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet and cook at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and crispy.
Is Parmesan Crusted Chicken healthy?
Parmesan Crusted Chicken can be part of a balanced meal, but it’s often higher in calories and fat due to the breadcrumbs and cheese. Opt for lighter cooking methods like baking for a healthier version.
Can you use other cheeses for the crust?
While Parmesan cheese is traditional, you can use other cheeses like Asiago or Romano for a different flavor. Mixing cheeses can add variety to the crust and make it more unique.
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up your three shallow bowls. In the first, mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second, whisk the eggs. In the third, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and more salt and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Take one chicken breast and dip it into the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, and then finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating. Repeat with all chicken breasts.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or olive oil. Place the breaded chicken breasts on the sheet, ensuring they are not touching. This allows the heat to circulate around the chicken, helping it become crispy.
- Bake: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The coating should be golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help retain the juiciness of the chicken inside. Pair with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
