Crispy Parmesan Chicken: The Ultimate Recipe for a Delicious Dinner

Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a dish that never fails to impress, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The golden, crunchy exterior paired with the savory, cheesy flavor creates a delightful experience that tantalizes the taste buds. This recipe has roots in Italian cuisine, where the use of Parmesan cheese elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Over the years, it has become a beloved favorite in households around the world, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of crispy texture and rich flavor makes Crispy Parmesan Chicken a go-to meal for many. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it perfect for busy families or anyone looking to whip up a delicious dinner in no time. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup olive oil (or melted butter for richer flavor)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture. 2. **Prepare the Chicken Breasts**: Take the chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This helps them cook uniformly and stay juicy. 3. **Season the Chicken**: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the chicken itself.

Setting Up the Breading Station

4. **Prepare the Breading Mixture**: In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian herbs. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. 5. **Prepare the Egg Wash**: In another bowl, crack the two large eggs and whisk them until they are well combined. This egg wash will help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken. 6. **Prepare the Flour**: Place the all-purpose flour in a third shallow dish. This will be the first step in the breading process.

Breading the Chicken

7. **Dredge in Flour**: Take one chicken breast and coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. This step helps the egg wash stick better to the chicken. 8. **Dip in Egg Wash**: Next, dip the floured chicken breast into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. 9. **Coat with Breadcrumb Mixture**: Finally, press the chicken breast into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly on both sides. I like to press down a bit to ensure the crumbs stick well. 10. **Repeat**: Repeat steps 7 to 9 for the remaining chicken breasts. Place the breaded chicken on a plate or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Cooking the Chicken

11. **Heat the Oil**: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil (or melted butter) over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet, about 1/4 inch deep. 12. **Sear the Chicken**: Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a breadcrumb in; it should sizzle), carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. You may need to do this in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough. 13. **Transfer to Oven**: After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures that the chicken is cooked through while remaining juicy.

Assembling and Serving

14. **Check for Doneness**: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. If it’s not quite there, give it a few more minutes in the oven. 15. **Rest the Chicken**: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. 16. **Garnish**: While the chicken is resting, chop some fresh parsley for garnish. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. 17. **Serve**: Plate the crispy Parmesan chicken and garnish with the chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. I love squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before eating; it brightens up the flavors beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Parmesan Chicken

– **Use Panko Breadcrumbs**:

Conclusion:

In summary, this Crispy Parmesan Chicken recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of crunchy, golden-brown coating and the rich, savory flavor of Parmesan creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you serve it alongside a fresh garden salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a zesty pasta dish, this chicken is versatile enough to complement a variety of sides. For those looking to mix things up, consider adding your favorite herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick, or try substituting the chicken with eggplant or zucchini for a delightful vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or cheddar, to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe. I encourage you to give this Crispy Parmesan Chicken a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any variations you decided to try. Cooking is all about creativity and making it your own, so don’t hesitate to put your personal touch on this dish. Trust me, once you taste that crispy, cheesy goodness, you’ll be coming back for seconds! Enjoy your cooking adventure! Print