Get ready to enjoy a crunchy, cheesy treat with my Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This dish features juicy chicken breasts coated in crispy panko and rich Parmesan. I’ll guide you through the simple steps to make it, along with tips to get the best crunch. Whether it’s dinner for yourself or a special occasion, this recipe is a sure hit. Let’s dive in and turn your kitchen into a crispy delight today!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Seasonings and Coatings
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Olive oil spray
For this baked Parmesan crusted chicken recipe, you need fresh, high-quality ingredients. The chicken breasts serve as a great base. They stay juicy and tender while baking. The grated Parmesan cheese brings a lovely, rich flavor. It adds that cheesy goodness we all love. Panko breadcrumbs provide the crunch that makes every bite exciting.
You will also need some seasonings. Garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning add depth to the taste. Don’t forget salt and pepper! They help bring out all the flavors in the dish.
You will need eggs and flour for the coating. The eggs help the crumbs stick to the chicken. The flour creates a thin layer that keeps everything together. Finally, a light spray of olive oil helps achieve that golden, crispy finish.
For the full recipe, check the details above. Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat will help create a crispy outside. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
Now, set up your breading station. You will need three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, seasoned with salt and pepper. In the second bowl, beat two large eggs. In the third bowl, mix one cup of grated Parmesan cheese, one cup of panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and more salt and pepper.
Coating Technique
Now it’s time to coat the chicken. Take each boneless, skinless chicken breast and dip it in the flour first. Shake off any extra flour. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip off. Finally, coat the chicken with the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help it stick well.
Baking Directions
Once coated, place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray to help them crisp up. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. The chicken is done when it turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the chicken juicy and tasty.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions. Enjoy creating this crispy delight!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving a Crispy Crust
To get that perfect crispy crust, use panko breadcrumbs. Panko is lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs. This means more crunch when baked. To make sure the coating sticks, follow these steps:
1. Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick well.
2. Coat in Flour First: Dip each chicken piece in flour before the egg wash. This helps create a base for the crumbs.
3. Press Down: When you coat the chicken in the Parmesan breadcrumb mix, press down gently. This helps the crumbs stick better.
Perfecting Cooking Times
The best internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check this. If you do not have one, slice into the chicken. The juices should run clear, not pink. After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Presentation Ideas
For a beautiful presentation, serve the chicken on a wooden cutting board. Slice it into strips for easy serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for color. A lemon wedge adds a fresh touch. This makes your dish look more appealing and ready to enjoy. For more details, check the Full Recipe.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily switch up the cheese in your dish. Romano or Asiago gives a good twist. These cheeses add a unique flavor that enhances the chicken. If you need a gluten-free option for breadcrumbs, try crushed rice or cornflakes. They work great and still provide a lovely crunch.
Flavor Variations
Want to jazz up your chicken? Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mix. These herbs add depth and aroma. For a spicy kick, toss in some chili flakes. This will make your dish exciting and flavorful.
Serving Style Variations
When it comes to side dishes, you have many choices. Pair your chicken with roasted veggies or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with sauces or dips. A tangy lemon sauce or creamy ranch dip works well. This adds extra taste and makes the meal fun.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions and tips above!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your baked Parmesan crusted chicken fresh, place it in an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then put them in a freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
When you reheat the chicken, you want to keep it crispy. The best way to do this is in an oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the crust crunchy and the inside juicy. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the chicken soggy.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your baked Parmesan crusted chicken lasts about three days. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months. Just remember, the longer you store it, the more the flavor may change. Enjoy your delicious chicken within that time for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They are darker meat and can be juicier. However, chicken thighs cook a bit longer than breasts. Aim for an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C) for thighs. You might need to adjust your baking time by about 5 to 10 minutes. The texture will be softer, and the flavor is richer.
How do I make the crust even crispier?
To enhance the crust’s crispiness, consider these tips:
– Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They add extra crunch.
– Add more Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy kick.
– Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil before baking. This helps it brown better.
– Try broiling the chicken for a few minutes at the end. Just watch it closely to avoid burning.
Can I prepare this recipe a day in advance?
Yes, you can prep this dish ahead of time. Here’s how:
– Coat the chicken as directed in the recipe.
– Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with plastic wrap.
– Store it in the fridge overnight.
– When ready, bake it straight from the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you have a tasty meal ready to go! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
This blog post covered how to make a tasty chicken dish. You learned about key ingredients, including chicken, Parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs. I shared the steps for preparation, coating, and baking. We also discussed tips for a crispy crust and variations to keep it exciting.
With these ideas, you can impress your friends and family. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and styles in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
