Hey y’all! If you’re searching for the ultimate crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-juicy chicken dinner, this Parmesan Crusted chicken is a total game-changer. It’s fabulous for quick weeknight meals, casual gatherings, or when you just want that mouthwatering restaurant-style crunch at home. The secret is a savory, golden crust that locks in all the juicy flavors. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted chicken
- Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Ultra-Crispy Crust: The combination of Parmesan and breadcrumbs creates an irresistibly crunchy exterior.
- Juicy and Flavorful: The chicken stays tender and moist with every bite.
- Versatile: Great on its own, in sandwiches, or over salads.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike!
Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3–4 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to make 4 thinner cutlets. Place between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to even thickness, about 1/2-inch thick.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
In one shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat eggs and milk together. In a third bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, then press into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, coating well on all sides.
Step 4: Cook the Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken cutlets and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C). Cook in batches as needed to avoid crowding the pan.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- For best crispiness, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, not the pre-shredded stuff.
- Let the coated chicken rest for 5 minutes before frying for maximum crunch.
- Resist flipping the chicken too early; let each side turn golden before moving.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Variations
- Spicy Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko and flour for a celiac-friendly version.
- Herb-Lemon: Add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated lemon zest and fresh chopped parsley to the breadcrumb mix for brightness.
Equipment Needed for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Plastic wrap and meat mallet
- Three shallow bowls
- Large skillet (non-stick or cast iron recommended)
- Paper towels
- Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Storage & Shelf Life
Store leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and the crust is crispy—about 10 minutes. Freezing is possible, but the crust will lose crispiness.
Serving Ideas for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Serve over a fresh Caesar salad or garlic butter pasta.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
- Slice and tuck into a toasted sandwich with arugula and tomato.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Pro Tips
- Press the Parmesan-breadcrumb coating firmly onto the chicken for the crispiest crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches for even browning.
- Let chicken rest a couple minutes after frying to lock in juiciness.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken FAQ
- Can I bake Parmesan Crusted Chicken instead of frying?
- Absolutely! Bake on a rack at 425°F (220°C) for about 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway for crispiness.
- Can I use chicken thighs?
- Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well—just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
- How do I know when Parmesan Crusted Chicken is done?
- The chicken is ready when the crust is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yields: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet, or heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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2Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
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3In a shallow bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and dried Italian herbs. Place flour in a separate shallow bowl and beat eggs in a third bowl.
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4Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.
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5Arrange the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil (or place in the heated skillet). Bake for 20–25 minutes or pan-fry 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
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6Serve hot with a side of your choice, garnished with extra parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO
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Approximate Information for One Serving
Serving Size:
1 serving
Calories:
430 caloriescal
Protein:
41gg
Fat:
20gg
Saturated Fat:
0g
Trans Fat:
0g
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
0mg
Potassium:
0mg
Total Carbs:
22gg
Fiber:
0g
Sugar:
0g
Net Carbs:
0g
Vitamin A:
0
Vitamin C:
0mg
Calcium:
0mg
Iron:
0mg
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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