Are you ready to impress at dinner with a dish that’s both easy and tasty? Parmesan Crusted Chicken is here to save the day! With a golden, crunchy crust and juicy chicken inside, it’s a meal everyone will love. Plus, you’ll discover smart tips to make it perfectly every time. Let’s dive into the mouthwatering world of Parmesan Crusted Chicken and get cooking!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ¼ cup olive oil
The ingredients for Parmesan crusted chicken are simple, yet they create a great meal. You need four chicken breasts that are boneless and skinless. For the crust, you use one cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This cheese adds a rich, savory taste. You will also want one cup of breadcrumbs. I suggest using panko breadcrumbs because they give a lovely crunch.
Next, you need two tablespoons of fresh parsley. This herb adds a bright flavor and color. You will also use two teaspoons of garlic powder, one teaspoon of onion powder, and one teaspoon of paprika for a hint of spice. Two large eggs help to bind the crust to the chicken.
Lastly, do not forget the salt and pepper to taste. You will need a quarter cup of olive oil for frying. Together, these ingredients make a delicious Parmesan crusted chicken that is sure to please.
Nutritional Information
– Calories per serving: Approximately 400 calories
– Macronutrients breakdown:
– Protein: 35g
– Fats: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Suggested serving size: One chicken breast per serving
The nutritional facts show that this meal is a good source of protein. Each serving has about 400 calories. You get 35 grams of protein, which helps build strong muscles. The dish has 20 grams of fat, mostly from the olive oil and cheese. It also has 25 grams of carbohydrates, which gives you energy for the day. This meal is filling and balanced, making it perfect for dinner.
You can find the Full Recipe for detailed steps on how to make this tasty dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– In a shallow dish, mix:
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
This mixture will add great flavor and texture to the chicken.
Cooking Instructions
– First, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
– Next, dip each chicken breast into 2 beaten eggs. Make sure they are fully coated.
– Now, place the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly to coat both sides.
– Heat ¼ cup of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
– Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown.
– Transfer the browned chicken to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Final Cooking Tips
– To check if the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 165°F (75°C).
– Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy and tender.
For the full recipe, you can refer to the earlier section. Enjoy your cooking!
Tips & Tricks
Pro Tips for Perfecting the Dish
To coat chicken evenly, first, season both sides with salt and pepper. This adds flavor. Dip the chicken in the egg, letting excess drip off. Then, press it into the cheese and breadcrumb mix. Make sure to cover all the surfaces well. For a crispy crust, use panko breadcrumbs. They give extra crunch. Also, don’t rush the browning process in the skillet. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Parmesan crusted chicken with fresh green salad or roasted veggies. These sides balance the richness of the dish. For a tasty dip, try a lemon-garlic aioli. It adds a nice zing that complements the chicken well. A side of pasta with marinara sauce also works great!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F. This ensures it stays juicy. Another mistake is skipping steps in the prep. Each step builds flavor. Don’t rush through coating or browning. Following the full recipe carefully gives the best results.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can switch up the cheese in this dish. Try using pecorino or mozzarella for a different taste. These cheeses melt well and add great flavors. If you need a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. These options work well and keep the crunch.
Flavor Variations
Want to spice things up? Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix for a kick. This will give your chicken a nice heat. You can also try adding dried herbs. Oregano, thyme, or basil can change the flavor profile. Mix and match herbs to find your favorite combination.
Cooking Methods
An air fryer makes this dish even easier. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Cook the breaded chicken for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. This method keeps the chicken crispy and juicy.
Grilling is another tasty option. Preheat your grill on medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side. This adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the Parmesan crust.
For the full recipe, check out the main article!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Parmesan crusted chicken tasty, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge after it cools. This chicken lasts about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil.
Reheating Guidelines
When reheating, the best method is the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. This way, it stays moist and warms evenly. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. It can dry out the chicken quickly. If you freeze it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Meal Prep Tips
You can make Parmesan crusted chicken in advance for busy days. Cook it fully, then cool and store it in the fridge. Cut it into strips or cubes for easy meals. Use leftover chicken in salads, wraps, or pasta dishes for extra flavor. It’s a great way to save time and enjoy tasty meals throughout the week. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C) inside. Use a meat thermometer to check. The meat should be white, and juices should run clear.
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Just be aware it may take longer to cook through. Adjust your cooking time to ensure it reaches the right temperature.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar taste. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free option too.
Cooking Techniques
Can I bake instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a great option. Just follow the same steps for coating the chicken. Bake it at 400°F (200°C) until golden and cooked through.
What temperature should I use if cooking in an air fryer?
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Dietary Concerns
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, it can be low-carb if you use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs. This keeps the flavors while lowering carbs.
Can I make this chicken dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for the crust. This keeps the dish tasty and friendly for all diets.
This recipe for Parmesan Crusted Chicken provides delicious flavor and easy steps. We covered the key ingredients you need, the cooking process, and helpful tips to get it right. Remember to use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and avoid overcooking. With variations and storage tips, you can enjoy this dish in many ways. I hope you try it and make it your own. Happy cooking!
