If you're looking for a meal that’s both simple and bursting with flavor, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is the perfect fit! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with a cheesy, garlicky goodness, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're cooking for your family, hosting a dinner, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a versatile option. Keep reading to learn all the tips, tricks, and details to create the perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home.

What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a dish where chicken breasts are coated in a blend of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and various seasonings, then baked or pan-fried until golden brown and crispy. This dish combines the savory, nutty flavor of Parmesan with the tender, juicy texture of chicken to create a satisfying and flavorful meal. It’s a perfect blend of simple ingredients that come together to make something truly mouth-watering.
Ingredients List for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
To make the best Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These should be about 6-8 oz each for even cooking. You can also use chicken tenders if preferred.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan provides better flavor and texture compared to pre-grated varieties.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Panko adds extra crunch to the crust, but regular breadcrumbs will also work.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the flavor with a hint of savory garlic.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds depth to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These basics bring out all the other flavors.
- 2 large eggs: Beaten, to help the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: For dredging the chicken before coating it in the egg mixture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For pan-frying the chicken to achieve a crispy crust.
- Lemon wedges (optional): For serving, to add a burst of freshness to the dish.
Substitutions and Variations
Don’t have all the ingredients listed? No problem! Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:
- Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They’ll be juicier, but may take a bit longer to cook.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions. You can find gluten-free panko or use almond flour as a substitute.
- Herb Crusted Variation: Add fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary into the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Mix a teaspoon of paprika or cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Now that you have all your ingredients, let's move on to the next section where we break down how to cook this Parmesan Crusted Chicken to perfection.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Parmesan Crusted Chicken perfectly crispy and flavorful every time:
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch thick) using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In one shallow dish, place the flour and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third dish, combine the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a bit more salt and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the Parmesan-panko mixture, making sure it’s covered evenly on all sides.
- Pan-Fry the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Finish in the Oven (Optional): If your chicken breasts are thick or you want extra crispy crust, transfer them to a baking sheet and finish cooking in a 375°F oven for 10 minutes.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
How to Cook Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the Oven: If you plan to finish the chicken in the oven, preheat it to 375°F.
- Season and Coat: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before dredging them in flour, egg, and the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.
- Fry or Bake: Cook in a skillet until the crust is crispy, then finish in the oven if needed.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Pounding the Chicken Evenly: Skipping this step can result in uneven cooking, leaving some parts dry and others undercooked.
- Overcrowding the Pan: If you add too many chicken breasts to the pan at once, they’ll steam rather than sear, resulting in a soggy crust.
- Not Letting the Oil Heat Up Properly: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb the oil and become greasy rather than crispy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving your Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you want to make sure it looks as appetizing as it tastes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is beautifully presented:
- Serve with Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice adds a refreshing, zesty flavor that complements the richness of the chicken.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the top of the chicken for a burst of color and freshness.
- Add a Side Salad: Serve your chicken alongside a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
- With Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in marinara or alfredo sauce for a hearty meal.
- Over Rice: Pair the chicken with a light lemon-butter rice or a pilaf for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- With Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a mixed vegetable medley are perfect accompaniments.
Presentation Ideas for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Elegant Plating: Slice the chicken on a diagonal and fan it out on the plate for an elegant touch.
- Rustic Style: Serve the whole chicken breast on a wooden board with sides arranged around it for a rustic, family-style presentation.
- Garnish with Lemon Slices and Herbs: Add lemon slices and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a simple yet attractive finish.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 hours before cooking. This helps the coating stick better and makes meal prep easier.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it’s fully cooked but still juicy.
- Double the Recipe: This dish freezes well, so consider making extra to freeze for a quick meal later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make Parmesan Crusted Chicken in the oven only? Yes! If you prefer to skip pan-frying, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Can I use pre-grated Parmesan? While you can, freshly grated Parmesan will provide a better texture and flavor. Pre-grated Parmesan often has anti-caking agents that can make the crust less crispy.
- Can I freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken? Absolutely. Cook the chicken fully, let it cool, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.
- What’s the best way to reheat Parmesan Crusted Chicken? To keep the crust crispy, reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes rather than microwaving it.
Conclusion
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your family and guests alike. With its crispy Parmesan coating and tender, juicy chicken, it’s a meal that can be dressed up for special occasions or enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner. Give it a try, and don’t forget to experiment with the variations and tips provided to make it your own! Happy cooking!
PrintParmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe delivers a crunchy, golden crust with juicy chicken inside. Featuring a Parmesan and breadcrumb coating, it’s the perfect dish for a simple yet flavorful dinner. Serve this with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad for a wholesome meal. Keywords: Parmesan Crusted Chicken, breaded chicken, easy chicken recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko preferred)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Flatten the chicken breasts to even thickness.
- In a shallow bowl, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Beat eggs in another bowl.
- Dip chicken breasts in the egg mixture, then coat them with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken on both sides until golden (about 3 minutes per side).
- Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use Panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
- Flattening the chicken ensures even cooking and a tender result.
- Serve with marinara sauce or over pasta for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 580 mg
Leave a Reply