Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and juicy goodness. Tender chicken breasts are coated in a savory mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then baked to golden perfection. Pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Grate the Parmesan Fresh: Freshly grated Parmesan works best for a smoother, more flavorful crust. Pre-grated cheese often has additives that can affect the texture of the crust.
• Use Panko for Extra Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs give the crust its signature light and crispy texture. Avoid using regular breadcrumbs for the best result.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick, or swap the oregano for Italian seasoning for a more complex flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the chicken, give the pieces plenty of room to cook evenly and crisp up. If you overcrowd the pan, the crust will become soggy.

Variations to Try

While the classic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is amazing on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it and make it your own:

• Chicken Parmesan: After baking the crusted chicken, top each piece with marinara sauce and a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. Place it back in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve over spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a hearty meal.
• Lemon Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Add some fresh lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a citrusy twist. A squeeze of lemon juice over the chicken before serving will also add brightness.
• Herbed Parmesan Crust: Mix in fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary into the breadcrumb mixture for an herby flavor that pairs beautifully with the Parmesan.
• Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free version, swap out the Panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds. You’ll still get that crispy texture without the gluten.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Some of my favorite options include:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery flavor of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the crispy, cheesy chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers provides a healthy, colorful side that complements the savory chicken.
• Caesar Salad: The crispness of a Caesar salad, with its tangy dressing and crunchy croutons, is a wonderful accompaniment.
• Pasta: Serve the chicken with your favorite pasta and sauce for a more filling meal. A simple garlic butter pasta or a creamy Alfredo sauce would be divine.

How to Store Parmesan Crusted Chicken

If you have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain the crispiness. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat, but be sure to cover the skillet to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and slightly richer flavor. The cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

How can I make the crust even crispier? For an extra crispy crust, you can broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture ahead of time. Store the breaded chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready, simply cook as instructed.

Is this recipe gluten-free? The recipe as written is not gluten-free due to the Panko breadcrumbs. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds.

Can I freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken? Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken before cooking. Lay the breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes or until fully cooked.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is one of those dishes that is simple to prepare but full of flavor. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish will not disappoint. With a crispy, cheesy exterior and tender chicken inside, it’s no wonder this recipe has earned a permanent spot in my dinner rotation.

Try these other chicken recipes:

• KFC Coleslaw 
• Fried Chicken Wings
• Chicken Nachos