Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Deliciously Crispy Recipe for Dinner

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a dish that never fails to impress, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The golden, crispy crust combined with the tender, juicy chicken creates a delightful contrast that tantalizes the taste buds. This recipe has roots in Italian cuisine, where the use of Parmesan cheese is celebrated for its rich flavor and versatility. Over the years, Parmesan Crusted Chicken has become a beloved favorite in households around the world, and it’s easy to see why. The savory, cheesy coating not only adds depth to the dish but also provides a satisfying crunch that keeps everyone coming back for more.

What I love most about Parmesan Crusted Chicken is its incredible convenience. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or entertaining guests. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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 golden crust. 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 the chicken cook evenly 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.

Preparing the Breading Mixture

4. **Set Up Your Breading Station**: In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, add the grated Parmesan cheese. In the second bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. In the third bowl, whisk together the eggs and Dijon mustard until well combined. 5. **Coat the Chicken**: Take one chicken breast and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off before moving to the next step. Then, dredge the chicken in the Parmesan cheese, pressing down slightly to ensure it adheres well. Next, dip it back into the egg mixture briefly, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a good layer of crumbs sticks to the chicken. Repeat this process for all chicken breasts.

Cooking the Chicken

6. **Heat the Olive Oil**: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough that it shimmers but not smoking. 7. **Sear the Chicken**: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a beautiful color and flavor to the crust. 8. **Transfer to the Oven**: After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. 9. **Check for Doneness**: To check if the chicken is done, you can use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the chicken to ensure the juices run clear and there’s no pink meat.

Assembling and Serving

10. **Rest the Chicken**: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. 11. **Garnish**: While the chicken is resting, chop some fresh parsley. This will add a pop of color and freshness to your dish. 12. **Serve**: Slice the chicken breasts if desired and serve them on a platter. You can sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a beautiful presentation. This Parmesan crusted chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some creamy mashed potatoes.

Tips for Success

– **Use Fresh Ingredients**: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will give you a better flavor and texture than pre-grated cheese. If you can, grate it yourself right before using it. – **Experiment with Seasonings**: Feel free to customize the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or some lemon zest for brightness can elevate the dish even further. – **Make it Ahead**: You can prepare the chicken and bread it a few hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This can save you time on busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

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Conclusion:

In summary, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The crispy, golden crust paired with the juicy chicken creates a delightful contrast that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can serve it alongside a fresh garden salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or even over a bed of pasta for a heartier meal. Feeling adventurous? Try adding different herbs or spices to the crust for a unique twist, or swap out the chicken for eggplant or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Parmesan Crusted Chicken a go and experience the joy of cooking something that not only looks impressive but tastes divine. Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking! Print