Parmesan chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. With a crispy, cheesy crust and tender chicken, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress guests, this recipe has you covered. Get ready to enjoy a delicious, comforting meal in no time!
Why We Love This Parmesan Chicken
There’s something truly special about a well-cooked Parmesan chicken. The golden, crispy crust gives way to a juicy, tender chicken breast inside. This dish is the perfect combination of comfort food and sophistication, making it ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal to impress your guests.
Here’s why we absolutely love this Parmesan chicken:
- Simple to Make: The recipe comes together quickly with a handful of basic ingredients, making it perfect for busy nights when you still want a flavorful, satisfying meal. Plus, there’s minimal prep time, which means more time for you to relax!
- Crispy & Cheesy: The crispy Parmesan coating adds a delightful crunch, while the melted cheese gives the dish an irresistible savory flavor. It’s the kind of crispy crust everyone loves, without being too greasy.
- Versatile: Whether you’re serving it alongside a fresh salad, pasta, or roasted vegetables, this Parmesan chicken fits seamlessly with a variety of side dishes. It’s adaptable, so you can easily make it your own based on what you have at hand.
- Packed with Flavor: The garlic and herbs enhance the Parmesan crust, making each bite full of bold, savory goodness. And the best part? You get that delicious, cheesy crunch without any complicated ingredients.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy, this Parmesan chicken is a winner every time.
Ingredients
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The main protein; tender and lean.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds flavor and helps create a crispy crust.
Panko breadcrumbs – Gives a crunchy texture to the coating.
Garlic – Freshly minced for bold, savory flavor.
Large egg – Helps bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
Olive oil – Used for cooking and creating a golden crust.
Dried oregano – Adds an Italian herb flavor.
Dried thyme – A subtle, earthy flavor.
Dried parsley – Brightens the flavor of the crust.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Parmesan chicken with a crispy, cheesy crust:
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for baking or heat a skillet over medium heat for pan-frying. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Set Up Dipping Stations:
In one bowl, mix grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs. In another, beat the egg.
Coat the Chicken:
Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.
Cook the Chicken:
Baking: Place chicken on a greased baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Pan-Frying: Heat olive oil in the skillet and cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and cooked through.
Rest and Serve:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
Pro Tips
Here are a few helpful tips to make sure your Parmesan chicken turns out perfectly every time:
For Extra Crispiness:
If you’re aiming for an extra-crispy crust, try adding a little bit of cornstarch to the breadcrumb mixture. This will give the coating a light, crunchier texture. Also, don’t skip the step of pressing the breadcrumbs into the chicken for a thicker, more satisfying crust.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan:
Freshly grated Parmesan melts and sticks better than pre-grated cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents. Grating it yourself ensures a smoother, more flavorful coating.
Cooking Method Options:
If you prefer a lighter option, baking the chicken is a great way to get a crispy crust without the extra oil. However, pan-frying in olive oil creates a richer flavor and a beautiful golden color. The choice is yours based on your preference!
Don’t Overcook:
Overcooking chicken can result in dry meat. To avoid this, make sure to check the internal temperature. Chicken should be cooked to 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
Rest the Chicken:
After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This step ensures the juices stay locked inside, keeping the chicken moist and tender.
Variations
One of the best things about Parmesan chicken is how adaptable it is. You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try:
Add a Lemon Twist:
For a refreshing burst of flavor, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving. The citrus will balance the richness of the Parmesan and add a zesty touch.
Chicken Parmesan:
Take it a step further by transforming your Parmesan chicken into Chicken Parmesan! Simply add marinara sauce and a layer of melted mozzarella cheese on top of each piece of chicken. Return the chicken to the oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese, then serve over spaghetti for a classic, comforting dish.
Herb-Infused Coating:
Switch up the dried herbs to match your flavor preferences. You can add fresh basil, rosemary, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Fresh herbs give a fragrant, flavorful twist to the crispy coating.
Gluten-Free Option:
If you need a gluten-free version, simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. It’s an easy adjustment that doesn’t compromise the texture or flavor of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Parmesan chicken is versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides, making it a perfect option for any meal. Here are a few ideas to complement the rich, crispy chicken:
With Pasta:
Serve your Parmesan chicken over a bed of pasta for a hearty, comforting meal. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work wonderfully. You can also drizzle a little extra marinara sauce on top if you want a classic Italian touch.
Fresh Salad:
For a lighter option, serve the chicken with a crisp, fresh salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives balances the richness of the chicken with fresh, zesty flavors.
Garlic Bread:
If you’re craving something indulgent, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s buttery, garlicky goodness complements the Parmesan chicken beautifully.
Mashed Potatoes:
Creamy mashed potatoes make a fantastic side for Parmesan chicken. The smooth, buttery potatoes pair well with the crispy, cheesy chicken, creating a comforting, satisfying meal.
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FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making Parmesan chicken:
Can I make Parmesan chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken by breading it and storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld, and the breading will stay crispy when baked or fried. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly when you’re ready.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover Parmesan chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. For extra crispiness, you can broil it for the last 2 minutes.
What can I serve with Parmesan chicken for a low-carb meal?
For a low-carb option, serve your Parmesan chicken with zucchini noodles, a cauliflower mash, or a fresh green salad. These options will keep the meal light while still complementing the flavors of the chicken.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts. They’re juicy and flavorful, and they work wonderfully with the Parmesan coating. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.
parmesan chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you plan to bake the chicken. If you prefer to pan-fry it, heat a large skillet over medium heat. While the skillet or oven preheats, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Set Up the Dipping Stations:
- In one shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and dried herbs (oregano, thyme, and parsley). In another shallow bowl, beat the egg with a fork until well combined.
Coat the Chicken:
- Dip each chicken breast first into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, transfer the chicken to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks well. Ensure each breast is fully covered with the Parmesan and breadcrumb mix.
Cook the Chicken:
- For Baking: Place the coated chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the chicken and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden and crispy.
- For Pan-Frying: Heat olive oil in the skillet. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until the coating is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.