Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are best for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, just cook a little longer.

Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives that wonderful cheesy flavor. If you want, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast!

Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a light and crispy coating. If panko isn’t available, regular breadcrumbs work, but the texture won’t be as crunchy. You can even crush cornflakes if you want something different.

Eggs & Milk: This mix helps the breadcrumb coating stick. If you can’t use eggs, a mixture of ground flaxseed and water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) can work as a substitute.

How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?

The key to achieving an extra crispy chicken is in the frying and baking process. First, make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. Here’s how to do it:

• Use a shallow dish for the breading so there’s enough space to coat the chicken well.
• Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto each chicken breast to ensure it sticks.
• Fry the chicken in a hot skillet for that immediate crunch before baking to keep the moisture inside.
• Finally, baking the chicken helps it cook all the way through while keeping the crust crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan!

Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to settle, making it more juicy and tender when you cut into it!

How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Coating:

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Egg Mixture:

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk

For Frying:

• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook. So, in just around 40-45 minutes, you can be enjoying crispy, cheesy chicken!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.

2. Mix Your Coatings:

In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well so it’s evenly seasoned.

3. Whisk the Egg Mixture:

In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until they’re well combined. This will help the coating stick perfectly to the chicken.

4. Coat the Chicken:

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the coating stick. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off. Then, dredge it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to make sure it sticks well.

5. Fry for Crunchy Goodness:

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil or melted butter. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

6. Bake to Finish:

Transfer the seared chicken breasts onto the lined baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) and they are cooked through.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, serve alongside your favorite sides and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!

FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and can be juicier than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free cornflakes. Make sure to check the Parmesan cheese packaging for gluten-free certification as well!

Can I Prepare the Coating in Advance?

Yes! You can mix the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings together a day ahead of time. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to coat the chicken.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover crispy chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to re-crisp the coating, or use the microwave for quick reheating.