Parmesan Crusted Chicken: 7 Comforting Ways to Savor Life

parmesan crusted chicken

By:

Julia marin

There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of parmesan crusted chicken. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together, filling the house with mouthwatering aromas that say, “Dinner is ready!” This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, and trust me, it never fails to impress. The crispy, cheesy coating on tender chicken breasts is a delightful combination that’s hard to resist. Plus, there’s minimal fuss involved; with just a few simple ingredients, you can whip this up in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find joy in the straightforward preparation that doesn’t skimp on flavor. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this deliciously easy parmesan crusted chicken recipe—your family will be asking for seconds, I guarantee it!

parmesan crusted chicken - detail 1

Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds, trimmed for even cooking)
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated if possible for the best flavor)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (you can use traditional or panko for extra crunch)
  • 2 eggs (large, beaten well in a separate bowl)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for a rich, savory taste)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder (adds a lovely depth of flavor)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (season generously for the best result)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (to help with browning and flavor)

How to Prepare Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Preparing parmesan crusted chicken is a delightful experience, and I assure you, it’s easier than it looks! Let’s take it step by step, so you feel confident every step of the way.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial as it ensures your chicken will bake evenly.
  2. Next, grab two bowls. In one bowl, combine the grated parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it well until it’s all delightful and uniform. This mixture will give your chicken that irresistible crust!
  3. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until they’re nice and frothy. This will be your binding agent, helping that tasty coating stick to the chicken.
  4. Now, take each chicken breast and dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, transfer it to the parmesan mixture. Press down gently to ensure the cheese and breadcrumbs stick well. Don’t be shy about really packing it on there!
  5. Once all the chicken is coated, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Brown each side for about 3 minutes. This step is essential for that beautiful golden color!
  6. After browning, transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. When it’s done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy. Enjoy your delicious parmesan crusted chicken!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • The crispy, cheesy crust is absolutely irresistible and adds a wonderful texture.
  • Using just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that feels special.
  • This dish is versatile—pair it with whatever sides you love, from salads to roasted vegetables.
  • It’s a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Tips for Success with Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To ensure your parmesan crusted chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips you won’t want to miss! First, make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels before coating them; this helps the egg and parmesan mixture adhere better, giving you that nice, crunchy crust. Also, don’t skip the resting time after baking—this step makes a big difference in keeping the chicken juicy. And for peace of mind, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; you’re aiming for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken. Trust me, these small steps lead to a big payoff in flavor and texture!

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your parmesan crusted chicken can be helpful, especially if you’re mindful of what you eat. For each serving, which is about one chicken breast, you’re looking at approximately 350 calories. It packs a hearty 40 grams of protein, making it a great choice for muscle maintenance and energy. Additionally, it contains around 15 grams of fat, with 4 grams being saturated fat. There’s just 1 gram of sugar and 600 milligrams of sodium. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy your meal while keeping these numbers in mind!

FAQ About Parmesan Crusted Chicken

It’s always good to have a few questions answered when trying a new recipe, so let’s dive into some common queries about making parmesan crusted chicken!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the parmesan mixture a few hours in advance. Just cover it and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This makes it super convenient for busy evenings.

What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
No problem at all! You can use crushed cornflakes or even almond flour for a gluten-free option. Both will give you a lovely crunch and still enhance that delicious flavor.

How should I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so tasty!), simply place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I use different types of cheese?
Definitely! While parmesan is traditional, feel free to experiment with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Mixing cheeses can also create a delightful crust.

What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
This parmesan crusted chicken is quite versatile! It goes beautifully with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or even creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Enjoy!

Variations on Parmesan Crusted Chicken

One of the best things about parmesan crusted chicken is how easy it is to put your own spin on it! If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun variations to try:

  • Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the parmesan and breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic twist. This will elevate the flavor and make your kitchen smell heavenly!
  • Cheese Swap: While parmesan is delicious, mixing in some shredded mozzarella or provolone can add a gooey, melty element to your crust. Just imagine that cheese stretching as you take a bite!
  • Breadcrumb Alternatives: Try using crushed crackers, like Ritz or gluten-free alternatives, to give your chicken a unique crunch. Panko breadcrumbs are another great option for an extra crispy texture.
  • Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture to spice things up. It adds a delightful zing to the dish!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a parmesan crusted chicken that suits your taste perfectly. Enjoy experimenting!

Serving Suggestions for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To create a complete and satisfying meal with your parmesan crusted chicken, consider pairing it with some fresh side dishes. A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch that complements the richness of the chicken. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots, which not only bring color to your plate but also add a healthy balance. For a heartier option, creamy mashed potatoes or a warm quinoa salad could be delightful choices. Whatever you choose, your meal will be both comforting and delicious!

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parmesan crusted chicken

Parmesan Crusted Chicken: 7 Comforting Ways to Savor Life


  • Author: Julia marin
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A comforting and easy recipe for parmesan crusted chicken.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
  4. Dip each chicken breast into the eggs, then coat with the parmesan mixture.
  5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  6. Brown the chicken in the skillet for about 3 minutes on each side.
  7. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
  8. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • You can use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
  • Try adding herbs like oregano or basil for extra flavor.
  • Serve with a side of vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking and Pan-Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: parmesan crusted chicken, easy chicken recipe, comfort food

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

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