Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s crispy, savory, and packed with so much flavor, you’re going to adore this Parmesan Crusted Chicken. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, boasting a golden crust that’s bursting with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and fragrant herbs, all hugging tender chicken breasts that cook up juicy every time. This recipe is simple yet impressively delicious, making it perfect for weeknight meals or special dinners with friends. Trust me, once you try this Parmesan Crusted Chicken, it will become one of your go-to favorites for good reason!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might look humble, but each one plays a crucial role in building that irresistible texture and flavor that makes Parmesan Crusted Chicken so unforgettable. From the crispy seasoned bread crumbs to the fresh herbs, every component adds its magic.

• ½ cup all purpose flour: Provides a light base coat for the chicken to help the egg and crumbs stick perfectly.
• 2 eggs: Acts as the glue that binds the breading ingredients to the chicken for that beautiful crust.
• ⅔ cup seasoned Italian bread crumbs (I use Progresso): Offers a flavorful, crunchy texture with a lovely Italian twist.
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese: This cheese brings a rich, nutty flavor that’s the star of the Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate chicken.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme, parsley, chives or rosemary: Fresh herbs brighten and add complexity to the crust.
• 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds), pounded ¼”-thick: Ensures even cooking and juicy tenderness.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning the chicken before breading, essential for flavor.
• ¼ cup olive oil: Gives the crust a golden crisp finish when sautéed.
• Lemon wedges, for serving: A fresh squeeze of lemon adds just the right brightness to balance the richness.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prep Your Breading Station

First, get organized. Set up three shallow bowls side by side. Fill the first with flour, beat the eggs in the second, and mix together the bread crumbs, Parmigiano-Reggiano, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs in the third. This assembly line setup makes the breading process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Season and Coat Your Chicken

Season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper. Then dredge each breast in the flour, shaking off the excess so it’s just a thin layer. Next, dip into the beaten egg, letting any extra drip off, before pressing the chicken into the Parmesan and bread crumb mixture until fully coated. Repeat until all breasts are beautifully breaded and ready for cooking.

Step 3: Sauté to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large sauté pan. When the oil shimmers hot but not smoking, carefully lay the chicken in the pan. Cook the breasts for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side until you see a gorgeous golden crust. Flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is crisp and inviting.

Step 4: Notes on Chicken Thickness

If your chicken breasts are on the larger side, consider cutting them into smaller portions after pounding to ¼ inch thick. Alternatively, slicing them horizontally before pounding makes thinner cutlets that cook more evenly and are perfect for this recipe. This little extra step ensures the perfect texture without overcooking.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garnishes

A simple squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the cheese crust. You might also sprinkle a few extra chopped fresh herbs on top for a vibrant, fresh appearance and herbaceous pop that complements every bite.

Side Dishes

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted seasonal vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a wholesome meal, try serving it alongside a garlicky sautéed spinach or a light pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs — the options are as versatile as they are delicious.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken breasts into strips and serve them over a bed of mixed greens, making a crunchy, flavorful salad. You could also layer the chicken atop cooked quinoa or couscous for a hearty grain bowl. Serving these crispy cutlets with a side of marinara sauce transforms the dish into a lighter take on classic chicken Parmesan.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. To retain the best texture, reheat it gently in a skillet or oven rather than the microwave, which can make the crust soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken breaded but uncooked by placing each piece on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag with parchment paper between layers. This way, you have ready-to-cook portions whenever you need them, keeping for up to 3 months. Alternatively, freeze after cooking by wrapping individual pieces tightly to preserve flavor and texture.

Reheating

The best method to reheat is baking in a 375°F oven until warmed through and the crust crisps back up nicely. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it often leads to a soggy coating, and that would be a real shame with such a delightful crust.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in the Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

While Parmigiano-Reggiano is ideal for its nutty flavor, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different cheese twist. Just remember these cheeses vary in saltiness and texture, so adjust seasoning accordingly.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Cooking for about 4 to 6 minutes total on medium heat usually does the trick for ¼-inch thick cutlets. If you want to be precise, the internal temperature should read 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.

Can I bake the Parmesan Crusted Chicken instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking at 425°F on a greased or parchment-lined sheet for about 20-25 minutes (flipping halfway) produces a deliciously crisp crust without extra oil. It’s a great option if you prefer a lighter method.

What fresh herbs work best in the breading mix?

Thyme, parsley, rosemary, and chives all add wonderful flavor notes. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand or your personal flavor preferences. Fresh herbs really elevate the dish.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour and Italian bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Gluten-free panko or finely crushed gluten-free crackers work well to maintain that satisfying crunch.

Final Thoughts

There’s something genuinely comforting and satisfying about a crispy, cheesy crust enveloping juicy chicken, and this Parmesan Crusted Chicken captures that perfectly. I hope this recipe inspires you to bring a little bright, flavorful joy to your dinner table soon. Once you make it, it’s sure to become one of those beloved dishes you turn to time and again!

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