If you’re looking for a simple and tasty meal that impresses, you’ve landed in the right place! My Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is easy to make and packed with flavor. With just a few key ingredients, like chicken breasts and fresh Parmesan, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Let me guide you step-by-step to achieve the perfect crispiness and mouthwatering taste you crave! Ready to dive in?
Ingredients
Main Components
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Seasonings and Binding
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley for garnish
To make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you will need a few simple ingredients. The main components are the chicken, cheese, and breadcrumbs. I use boneless and skinless chicken breasts because they cook evenly and stay juicy. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the dish a rich flavor. Panko breadcrumbs are key for that extra crunch.
For seasonings, I like garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika. These add depth to the dish. Don’t forget salt and pepper to bring everything together.
You also need eggs and Dijon mustard. They help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. Lastly, a little olive oil spray or extra virgin olive oil can boost crispiness. You can garnish with fresh parsley for a pretty touch.
This recipe is easy and perfect for any weeknight meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
– Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures your chicken cooks evenly. Next, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Creating Your Coating Mixtures
– Whisk eggs and Dijon mustard together.
– Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl.
In a shallow bowl, whisk together two large eggs and two tablespoons of Dijon mustard. This mixture binds the breadcrumbs to the chicken. In another bowl, mix one cup of grated Parmesan cheese, one cup of panko breadcrumbs, two teaspoons of garlic powder, one teaspoon of dried oregano, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure the dry ingredients blend well for even flavor.
Coating the Chicken
– Dip chicken into egg mixture.
– Coat with breadcrumb mixture.
– Space chicken on baking sheet before baking.
Take a chicken breast and dip it into the egg mixture. Make sure it’s fully coated. Let any extra egg drip off. Next, place the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture. Press it down gently to coat both sides. Repeat this for all chicken breasts. Once coated, space them out on the prepared baking sheet. If you like, use olive oil spray or drizzle olive oil over them for extra crispiness.
Now, your chicken is ready to bake!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Crispiness
To make your chicken super crispy, use panko breadcrumbs. They add a nice crunch. You can also spray the chicken with olive oil or drizzle it lightly with oil. This step adds even more texture.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Bake your chicken for 20-25 minutes. Look for a golden brown color. To check if it’s done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is safe to eat.
Resting and Serving
Once your chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle and keeps it juicy. When serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top. It adds a pop of color and flavor. For a complete meal, try serving it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Enjoy your Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken!
Variations
Flavor Swaps
You can switch up the cheese for new flavors. Mozzarella or cheddar works well. These cheeses melt nicely and add great taste. You can also play with herbs and spices. Try Italian seasoning for a warm flavor. Add cayenne pepper for some heat. These small changes can make your dish exciting.
Crunchy Alternatives
Want a crunchy twist? Use crushed cornflakes or potato chips. They give a unique texture and flavor. They can make your chicken even crunchier. This swap is fun and easy. Just crush them and use them like breadcrumbs.
Meal Pairings
Pair your chicken with delicious sides. A fresh salad makes a great match. Roasted vegetables add color and nutrition. You can also serve it with rice or pasta. These sides help create a complete meal. They complement the chicken nicely. Enjoy your cooking adventure with these ideas!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
You should store leftover chicken in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Consume it within 3-4 days. If you wait too long, the chicken may spoil.
Freezing Recommendations
To freeze leftover chicken, wrap each piece tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap. This helps prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped chicken in a freezer bag, and label it with the date.
When you want to eat your frozen chicken, thaw it in the fridge overnight. For best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it is hot. This keeps the crust crispy and the inside juicy. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. Chicken thighs are juicier and have more flavor. They also have more fat, which makes them tender when cooked. However, they take a bit longer to cook than breasts. If you choose thighs, check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, start by marinating it. Use a mix of olive oil and lemon juice to add moisture. Cook at 400°F (200°C) to seal in the juices. Avoid overcooking; check the internal temperature early. Let the chicken rest for five minutes after baking. This helps the juices settle back into the meat.
What can I serve with Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
You can serve many sides with this chicken. A fresh garden salad pairs well and adds crunch. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots add color and nutrition. For a heartier meal, consider mashed potatoes or pasta. Lemon wedges brighten the dish and enhance flavors.Here’s a quick reference for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley for garnish
In summary, we covered how to make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken. You learned about key ingredients like chicken, Parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs. We explored step-by-step instructions and tips for achieving the perfect crunchy texture. Don’t forget about the tasty variations and how to store leftovers, too. This dish is simple and tasty, perfect for any meal. Try it your way and enjoy every bite!
