This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a winner! With a crunchy layer of Parmesan cheese, it’s packed with flavor and oh-so-delicious. Perfect for a quick dinner!
I love how easy it is to make. Just bread the chicken, bake it, and enjoy! You might want to hide some for later, but I can’t blame you if you finish it all in one sitting! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it simple and lean. If you prefer dark meat, use boneless thighs. They’ll offer a juicier bite and work great with the crust!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds that essential nutty flavor and crunch. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs are perfect for extra flavor. You can make your own using stale bread mixed with Italian seasoning. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts like almonds.
Spices: Garlic powder and oregano bring wonderful flavor. You can mix it up with other spices like paprika for a bit of smokiness or Italian herbs for more depth!
How Do I Get My Chicken Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy crust is all about preparation and technique. Here’s how to ensure your chicken comes out crunchy every time:
- **Dry the Chicken**: Before coating, make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry. This helps the coating stick better.
- **Press the Coating**: After dredging in breadcrumbs, gently press down to make sure they adhere well. This creates a thicker, crunchier crust.
- **High Heat Baking**: Baking at 400°F is key for a crispy texture. This temperature helps brown the coating quickly without drying out the chicken.
- **Broil at the End**: For the finishing touch, broil your chicken for 1-2 minutes at the end. Keep it watchful, as it can burn quickly.
These tips will help you master that crispy texture and impress everyone at the dinner table!
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing the baking sheet)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 35-40 minutes before you can dig into this crispy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or you can line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Whisk the Eggs:
In another shallow bowl, take the 2 large eggs and add the milk. Whisk together until they’re well blended. This will help our breadcrumbs stick nicely to the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Time to handle the chicken! Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Dip each one into the egg mixture first, letting the excess drip off, then coat it with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure an even coating.
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Space them evenly so they cook thoroughly and get that lovely golden color.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust appears crispy and golden.
7. Optional Broiling:
If you want an extra crispy finish, you can turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes. Just keep a close watch to prevent any burning. A little extra heat goes a long way!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juicy goodness inside. Serve it up with your favorite sides, and enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe and will give you a juicier and more flavorful result. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook than breasts, depending on their size.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the Italian-style breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This will give you the same great texture without the gluten.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a warm oven (around 350°F/175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help keep the crust crispy!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
You can! Bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. Baked chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it ahead of time for convenience!
