Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a crispy, golden delight that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With a crunchy Panko-Parmesan coating and a juicy, tender inside, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or an easy way to elevate your chicken recipes, this dish delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts, pounded thin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in the eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Cook the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Calories: 425 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• With Pasta: Serve over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine with marinara or Alfredo sauce.
• With Salad: Pair with a fresh Caesar or mixed greens salad for a lighter option.
• As a Sandwich: Place the crispy chicken in a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and garlic aioli for a delicious sandwich.
• With Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken by placing it in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

These serving and storage tips ensure your Parmesan Crusted Chicken stays fresh and flavorful while providing versatile meal options.

Variations

1. Spicy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for extra heat.
• Serve with a spicy mayo or buffalo sauce for dipping.

2. Herb-Crusted Chicken

• Mix fresh chopped parsley, basil, or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture for an herby twist.
• Drizzle with lemon juice before serving for added freshness.

3. Cheesy Mozzarella-Stuffed Chicken

• Slice a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with shredded mozzarella before coating.
• Secure with toothpicks and cook as directed for a melty, cheesy center.

4. Low-Carb Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Replace Panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version.
• Use an egg wash with heavy cream for extra richness.

5. Oven-Baked Parmesan Chicken

• Instead of frying, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Lightly spray the chicken with cooking oil to enhance crispiness.

6. Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders

• Cut chicken into strips before coating for a kid-friendly version.
• Serve with honey mustard, ranch, or marinara for dipping.

7. Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and extra garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Serve with a side of lemon wedges for a bright, zesty flavor.

These variations allow you to customize the dish based on your preferences while keeping it crispy, flavorful, and satisfying.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of Panko?
Yes, but Panko breadcrumbs create a crispier texture. Regular breadcrumbs will still work but may result in a softer coating.

2. Can I bake the Parmesan Crusted Chicken instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Lightly spray with cooking oil for a crispier finish.

3. How do I keep the coating from falling off?
Make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well. Adjust the cooking time as they may take slightly longer to cook.

5. What is the best way to reheat Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

6. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 6 hours before cooking.

7. What sauces pair well with this dish?
Marinara, Alfredo, honey mustard, garlic aioli, or a simple squeeze of lemon all complement the flavors beautifully.

8. How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds as a substitute for Panko.

9. Can I freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Yes, after cooking, let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

10. What side dishes go well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, Caesar salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a simple yet delicious meal that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. The crispy, cheesy crust pairs well with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its crunchy texture and savory taste.

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