When you’re craving a crispy, golden, and savory meal, Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a recipe that hits all the right notes. This easy-to-make dish takes chicken breasts to the next level with a crunchy Parmesan and breadcrumb coating. It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even impressing guests at a dinner party.

The crispy, cheesy exterior and tender chicken inside make Parmesan Crusted Chicken a favorite among both adults and children. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, from steamed vegetables to creamy pasta. In this article, we’ll dive deep into how to prepare this delectable dish and share tips for perfect results every time.

Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To make the best Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Here’s a breakdown:

Main Ingredients:

3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The backbone of the dish! Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, making them perfect for this recipe.
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor that pairs beautifully with the breadcrumbs to create the perfect crispy coating.
1 cup plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs – The breadcrumbs provide the crunchy texture that makes this dish so irresistible. You can opt for Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder enhances the savory flavor of the chicken, infusing the breading with a bit of spice.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano adds a fragrant, herbaceous note to the coating, complementing the Parmesan and garlic perfectly.
Salt and pepper to taste – These basic seasonings help bring all the flavors together.

These ingredients are simple, yet they combine to create a flavorful crust that is nothing short of amazing.

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking to modify this dish to suit your dietary needs, there are a few substitutions you can make:

Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. You can also use almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute.
Low-carb option: For a low-carb twist, try using crushed pork rinds or a mixture of ground almonds and Parmesan for the coating.
Dairy-free option: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can substitute the Parmesan with a non-dairy cheese or nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor without the dairy content.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Now, let’s go through the steps to make this mouthwatering dish. It’s incredibly easy and quick to prepare, so you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the optimal temperature for achieving a crispy golden-brown crust while ensuring the chicken stays moist inside.

While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This prevents the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

Step 2: Mix the Coating

In a bowl, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure that the Parmesan and breadcrumbs are evenly distributed, with the seasonings blended throughout.

The combination of Parmesan and breadcrumbs is key to creating that signature crispy texture and savory flavor. You’ll want to coat the chicken generously with this mixture to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Prep the Chicken

Next, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is crucial, as excess moisture on the chicken will prevent the coating from adhering properly. Drying the chicken also helps the breading to stick better, resulting in a crispier crust.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Now it’s time to coat the chicken. Press each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s coated evenly on both sides. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating. The more breadcrumbs you press onto the chicken, the crispier the exterior will be.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Space them out so that each piece has room to bake evenly. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The crust should be golden brown and crispy.

To check if the chicken is cooked through, you can use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast to ensure it’s fully cooked. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also make a small slit in the center of the chicken to check for clear juices, which indicate that the chicken is done.

Step 6: Let the Chicken Rest

Once the Parmesan Crusted Chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring that the chicken stays tender and juicy when sliced.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

After the chicken has rested, it’s ready to serve! You can enjoy Parmesan Crusted Chicken with a variety of side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. For a more indulgent meal, serve it with a creamy pasta dish.

Tips for Making Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

1. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan

For the best flavor and texture, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the crust. Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and creates a richer, more flavorful crust.

2. Don’t Skip the Resting Time

It may be tempting to slice into the chicken immediately, but giving it a few minutes to rest is essential for retaining moisture. Letting the chicken rest ensures it stays tender and juicy on the inside.

3. Adjust the Seasonings

Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. If you like a little more heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also add a bit of fresh chopped basil or thyme for additional flavor.

4. Keep the Chicken at an Even Thickness

For even cooking, try to ensure that the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness. If they’re uneven, you can use a meat mallet to gently pound them to an even thickness. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and ensures that the crust doesn’t burn before the chicken is fully cooked.

Pairing Ideas for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions to make your meal even more delightful:

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, broccoli, or zucchini are great options that complement the savory chicken. The caramelization from roasting adds sweetness and texture that balances the richness of the Parmesan crust.
Pasta: Serve this chicken over spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne pasta with a light marinara or creamy Alfredo sauce. The flavors of the pasta will blend beautifully with the crispy chicken.
Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you’re a fan of Parmesan Crusted Chicken, here are a few more recipes you might love:

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo – These baked chicken meatballs are combined with creamy ricotta and served in a decadent spinach Alfredo sauce.
Keto Crack Chicken – A keto-friendly, cheesy, and savory chicken dish that’s perfect for low-carb diets.
Loaded BBQ Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole – This casserole is loaded with all your favorite BBQ, bacon, and ranch flavors, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does Parmesan Crusted Chicken Last in the Fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Parmesan Crusted Chicken can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before storing to prevent condensation. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Why Is It Called Chicken Parmesan?

The name Chicken Parmesan comes from the Italian dish “Melanzane alla Parmigiana”, which is made with eggplant and Parmesan cheese. The dish was adapted using chicken instead of eggplant and topped with Parmesan, hence the name Chicken Parmesan. It’s a nod to the delicious combination of chicken, cheese, and breadcrumbs that became popular in American Italian cuisine.

How to Get Parmesan to Stick to Chicken?

To get Parmesan to stick to the chicken, make sure to press the chicken breasts firmly into the breadcrumb mixture so the coating sticks evenly. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before coating to remove excess moisture, which helps the crumbs adhere better. You can also lightly dip the chicken into beaten egg before coating it with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture to create a more secure, crunchy crust.

How Long Is Parmesan Chicken Good For?

Parmesan Chicken is typically good for 3-4 days when stored in the fridge in an airtight container. If you want to enjoy it later, reheat the chicken in the oven or on the stovetop for the best texture and flavor. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months, although the crust may lose some of its crispiness upon reheating.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the epitome of comfort food: crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor. This simple yet indulgent dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions. By following the easy steps outlined in this recipe, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s both delicious and easy to make.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Simple & Flavorful Recipe

Author: MixMealMagic
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe delivers a crispy, golden exterior with a juicy, tender inside. Coated with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a perfect blend of seasonings, this simple yet delicious chicken dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend family dinner. Baked to perfection, it’s a fuss-free meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

Scale

3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Mix Coating: In a large bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Prep Chicken: Pat each chicken breast dry with paper towels.
Coat Chicken: Press the chicken breasts into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
Bake: Arrange the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite vegetables or pasta!

Notes

For extra crispiness, spray the coated chicken with a light layer of cooking spray before baking.
Add a squeeze of lemon over the chicken before serving for a fresh, zesty kick!
You can easily customize the seasoning blend by adding dried basil or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for more flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (based on 4 servings)
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Parmesan Crusted Chicken, Parmesan Chicken, Crispy Chicken, Baked Chicken, Easy Chicken Recipes, Chicken Dinner Ideas, Family Dinner