Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy crispy, golden chicken cutlets without frying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it combines panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese to create a crunchy coating that keeps the chicken tender and juicy. Whether you’re serving it alongside pasta, salad, or roasted veggies, this dish is sure to impress.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For Garnish
• How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Breading
• Step 3: Slice the Chicken
• Step 4: Coat the Chicken
• Step 5: Bake the Chicken
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• With Fresh Salad
• Over Pasta
• Accompanied by Vegetables
• On a Sandwich
• How to Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Reheating Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
• How do I enhance the flavor of Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
• What should I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
• Can I use different cheeses?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Crispy and Delicious: The combination of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan creates a crunchy texture that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
• Versatile Pairings: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, making it suitable for any meal occasion.
• Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying keeps it lighter while still delivering the satisfying crunch you crave.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this flavorful chicken, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Shallow bowls
• Whisk
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for even cooking and easy handling.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Shallow bowls: Ideal for breading chicken; they keep your workspace organized.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

In a shallow bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, and garlic powder. If needed, microwave for about 30 seconds until smooth. In another shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Slice the Chicken

Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them in half horizontally. This creates thinner cutlets that cook evenly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each piece of chicken in the butter mixture until evenly coated. Transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Flip to coat both sides fully. Place on the prepared baking sheet and repeat with all pieces of chicken.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure each piece reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Parmesan crusted chicken!

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Parmesan crusted chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in several delightful ways. Its crispy texture and savory flavor pair well with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
• Caesar Salad: For a classic pairing, serve with a Caesar salad featuring romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing.

Over Pasta

• Linguine: Place the chicken over a bed of linguine tossed in olive oil and garlic for a satisfying meal.
• Pesto Pasta: Toss some pasta with fresh basil pesto for a vibrant and flavorful combination.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: The nutty flavor of roasted asparagus enhances the chicken’s taste while adding a colorful touch to your plate.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.

On a Sandwich

• Chicken Parmesan Sandwich: Layer the chicken on a crusty roll with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for an Italian-inspired sandwich.
• Wrap It Up: Use tortillas to wrap the chicken with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for an easy lunch option.

How to Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Parmesan crusted chicken, follow these helpful tips. These techniques will ensure that your dish is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

• Bold Butterflying Technique: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create even cutlets that cook uniformly.
• Bold Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh herbs and quality cheese for an enhanced flavor profile.
• Bold Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times to avoid overcooking; aim for 20 minutes at 425°F (218°C).
• Bold Press Breadcrumbs Firmly: When coating, press down on the breadcrumbs to ensure they adhere well to the chicken.
• Bold Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes helps retain juices and improves texture.

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Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Parmesan crusted chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside crispy chicken.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious balance to your meal.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory chicken.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini brings out natural flavors and adds health benefits to your plate.
5. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach offers a decadent side that pairs wonderfully with crispy textures.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for an aromatic companion that won’t overshadow the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan crusted chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Butterflying: Not slicing the chicken breasts into cutlets can lead to uneven cooking. Always butterfly them for even crispiness.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can affect texture. Preheat to 425°F (218°C) to ensure a crispy coating.
• Using Regular Breadcrumbs: Substituting regular breadcrumbs for panko will yield a denser crust. Stick with panko for that perfect crunch.
• Overcrowding on the Baking Sheet: Placing too many cutlets too close can cause steaming instead of baking. Space them out for proper crisping.
• Skipping Internal Temperature Check: Forgetting to check if the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) can result in undercooked meat. Always use a thermometer for safety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best taste and quality.

Freezing Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Freeze in a single layer before transferring to airtight freezer bags.
• Best if consumed within 2-3 months.

Reheating Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals; this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil, flipping until warmed and crispy again.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Parmesan crusted chicken is a baked dish featuring chicken cutlets coated with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, resulting in a crispy, flavorful crust.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How do I enhance the flavor of Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture or marinating the chicken beforehand.

What should I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

This dish pairs well with salads, roasted vegetables, or pasta for a complete meal experience.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique flavor twist while maintaining that crunchy texture.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan crusted chicken is not just simple and delicious; it’s also versatile. You can customize it with different herbs or spices based on your preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful crunch paired with your favorite sides!

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