Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a crispy, cheesy coating. This versatile recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to create the perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken, share some helpful tips, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a dish where chicken breasts are coated in a mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then baked or fried until golden and crispy. The result is a juicy, flavorful chicken with a crunchy exterior that pairs well with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set Up the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip in the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the fried chicken breasts to a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Even Thickness: Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.
- Crispy Coating: Frying the chicken before baking gives it a deliciously crispy exterior. If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the breaded chicken breasts at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: While Parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I make Parmesan Crusted Chicken ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bread the chicken breasts and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying and baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Q: Can I freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken? A: Absolutely! You can freeze the breaded, uncooked chicken breasts for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with frying and baking as directed.
Q: How do I prevent the breading from falling off? A: Make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken breasts and let them rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the breading adhere better.
Q: What can I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken? A: Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it? A: Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken breasts at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier option.
Conclusion
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. By following these steps and tips, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal at home. Enjoy this classic dish with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
Feel free to ask if you have any more questions or need further assistance with your cooking! 🍗🧀