Looking for a simple and tasty meal? This Parmesan crusted chicken recipe is your answer! With just a few ingredients, you can create a crunchy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. I’ll guide you through easy steps to make crispy chicken every time. Perfect for busy nights or family dinners, this meal will become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s get started on making your new favorite dinner!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredients List
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Garnishes and Cooking Additives
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Olive oil spray (for baking)
To create a perfect Parmesan crusted chicken, you need the right ingredients. Start with four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These will cook nicely and stay juicy. Next, gather one cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This cheese adds great flavor and a nice crispy texture.
You’ll also need one cup of panko breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are coarser than regular ones, making the chicken extra crunchy. For herbs, use one teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried basil. These herbs bring a lovely aroma and taste to the dish.
For those who want more flavor, consider adding optional ingredients. One teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder boosts the taste. You can also add half a teaspoon of salt and black pepper for seasoning. A couple of tablespoons of Dijon mustard will help the breadcrumbs stick better.
Finally, garnishing your dish adds a fresh touch. Use a quarter cup of chopped fresh parsley for this. A light spray of olive oil helps the chicken brown beautifully in the oven.
For the full recipe, you can follow the simple steps to make this tasty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Start by preheating your oven. This helps your chicken cook evenly. Parchment paper keeps the chicken from sticking. It also makes cleanup a breeze.
Combining the Dry Ingredients
– In a shallow bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and herbs.
Now, grab a shallow bowl. Mix the grated Parmesan cheese with panko breadcrumbs. Add dried oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This blend gives the chicken a tasty crust. Make sure it is well combined so every bite is full of flavor.
Preparing the Chicken for Coating
– Dip chicken in egg mixture, coat with breadcrumb mix, and place on baking sheet.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and Dijon mustard. Take each chicken breast and dip it into the egg mixture. Let any excess drip off. Then, coat it in the breadcrumb mix. Press gently to help the crumbs stick. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. This method ensures a crispy, flavorful crust. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions provided above.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Coating
To make sure the breadcrumbs stick well, you need to follow a few steps. First, dip your chicken in the egg mix. Let the excess drip off. Then, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mix. Press down gently to help it stick. This pressing is key. It locks in the crispy layer you want.
Baking Tips for Optimal Crispiness
For a golden texture, use olive oil spray. A light coating helps the chicken brown nicely in the oven. Bake your chicken for 25 to 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Check that it reaches 165°F (75°C) inside. This timing will give you the perfect crispy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Parmesan crusted chicken with sides like roasted veggies or a fresh salad. These add color and balance to your meal. For a nice touch, garnish with chopped parsley. It brightens the dish and makes it look fancy. You can also serve lemon wedges on the side for extra flavor.
Variations
Flavor Enhancements
You can easily customize your Parmesan crusted chicken by adding different herbs or spices. Try rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat. Each addition gives a new twist to the dish. For a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko. It works just as well and keeps the chicken crispy.
Cooking Method Adaptations
If you want a healthier option, try the air fryer. It cooks the chicken quickly and makes it crispy without much oil. Simply adjust the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes in the air fryer. Grilling is another fun method. It adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese. Just make sure the chicken is cooked through.
Side Dish Pairings
Serve your Parmesan crusted chicken with fresh salads or steamed veggies. A light arugula salad with lemon dressing complements the chicken well. For starch options, consider garlic mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto. These sides balance the flavors and make your meal complete. Enjoy your delicious feast!
For the full recipe, check out the Crispy Parmesan Herb Chicken section.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Parmesan crusted chicken fresh, place it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss. Store it in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing works great too.
Freezing Guidelines
To freeze the chicken, let it cool completely. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container. This keeps the chicken from getting freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
To keep the chicken crispy, the oven is your best friend. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. If you use a microwave, place a paper towel over the chicken. This helps keep it from getting soggy. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
FAQs
What is the best way to make chicken crispy?
To make chicken crispy, you want to use a good coating. A mix of Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs works wonders. Panko is lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs, giving that crunch you want.
Here are some tips:
– Dry the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick.
– Use oil spray: Lightly spray the chicken with oil before baking. This promotes browning and crispiness.
– Bake at high heat: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the coating crisp up fast.
– Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between each piece on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate and crisp all sides.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs. But there are some key differences. Regular breadcrumbs are denser and can lead to a soggier coating. They don’t provide the same crunch that panko does.
If you choose regular breadcrumbs:
– Consider mixing them with some crushed crackers for added texture.
– Add more seasoning to boost flavor, as they can be less flavorful than panko.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
You can tell chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Also, look for these signs:
– The juices should run clear, not pink.
– The chicken should feel firm to the touch.
– The coating should be golden brown and crispy.
Following these tips will help you enjoy a delicious Parmesan crusted chicken. For more details, check out the Full Recipe.
This recipe for Parmesan crusted chicken gives you great flavor and texture. You learned about key ingredients and simple steps to make it. I shared tips to help you achieve that perfect crispiness. You can even try different cooking methods and pair it with tasty sides. Storing and reheating leftovers is easy too. I hope you feel inspired to cook this dish and enjoy every bite. Happy cooking!
