Crispy Breaded Chicken

Crispy Breaded Chicken is a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, baked in the oven instead of deep-fried. It’s seasoned perfectly, with a golden, crunchy exterior and a juicy, tender inside. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅔ cup Panko bread crumbs
• ⅔ cup seasoned bread crumbs
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• Cooking spray

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• Pound chicken breasts to ½ inch thick.
• Beat eggs and set aside.
• Mix flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
• In another dish, combine Panko, bread crumbs, and seasonings.
• Dip chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
• Dip floured chicken in beaten eggs.
• Coat chicken with the bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
• Spray each side of the chicken generously with cooking spray.
• Place chicken on a rimmed baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-28 minutes or until chicken reaches 165°F internally.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
• Slice chicken to top sandwiches, wraps, or grain bowls.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to retain crispiness.
• Freeze baked chicken for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations

1. Parmesan Crusted – Add ½ cup grated Parmesan to the bread crumb mixture.
2. Spicy Cajun – Mix 1 tsp Cajun seasoning into bread crumbs.
3. Lemon Herb – Add 1 tsp lemon zest and 1 tsp dried thyme to the crumbs.
4. Italian Style – Mix ½ cup shredded mozzarella into bread crumbs.
5. Honey Mustard Glazed – Brush chicken with honey mustard before baking.
6. Garlic Parmesan – Add 1 tsp garlic powder and ¼ cup Parmesan to bread crumbs.
7. Smoky Paprika – Include 1 tsp smoked paprika in the breading.
8. Pesto Crusted – Spread 1-2 tbsp pesto on chicken before coating with crumbs.
9. Buffalo Style – Toss baked chicken in buffalo sauce before serving.
10. Sesame Crusted – Add 2 tbsp sesame seeds to the bread crumb mix.
11. Herb Crusted – Mix rosemary, thyme, and oregano into bread crumbs.
12. Crunchy Cornflake – Substitute half the bread crumbs with crushed cornflakes.
13. Parmesan Ranch – Add 1 tbsp ranch seasoning and ¼ cup Parmesan to crumbs.
14. Mediterranean – Add 2 tbsp sun-dried tomato flakes and oregano to crumbs.
15. Coconut Crusted – Mix ½ cup shredded coconut with Panko for a tropical twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, boneless thighs work; bake slightly longer for even cooking.
2. Do I have to use Panko bread crumbs?
   Panko gives extra crunch, but regular bread crumbs work too.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs for a safe alternative.
4. Can I prep chicken ahead of time?
   Yes, coat and store in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking.
5. Is cooking spray necessary?
   It helps achieve a golden, crispy crust without deep frying.
6. How can I make it extra crispy?
   Bake on a wire rack over a baking sheet for better air circulation.
7. Can I bake at a lower temperature?
   You can, but the crust may not be as crispy. Stick to 400°F for best results.
8. Can I freeze unbaked breaded chicken?
   Yes, freeze on a tray first, then transfer to a bag for up to 2 months.
9. How do I know when chicken is done?
   Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
10. Can I add cheese inside the chicken?
    Yes, stuff with mozzarella or cream cheese before breading for a stuffed version.

This Crispy Breaded Chicken delivers a golden, crunchy crust and juicy interior without the need for deep frying. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for serving with a variety of sides or using in sandwiches and salads.

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