Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe – Crispy, Juicy, and Irresistible

Parmesan Chicken Delight

Hola! I’m Emma, and if you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls head over heels for the bold, soul-warming flavors of Mexico, you might be surprised to see that I also have a soft spot for timeless comfort food like this parmesan crusted chicken recipe. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, this dish instantly reminds me of cozy family dinners back home in Orlando. The crunch of golden panko breadcrumbs paired with nutty parmesan cheese takes simple baked chicken breasts to a whole new level. Whether you’re searching for breaded chicken recipes, chicken parmesan recipe easy enough for weeknights, or baked chicken breast recipes that never fail, this one’s going to be a new favorite.

Quick Recipe Overview

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Golden crunch in every bite – The panko and parmesan coating makes the chicken irresistibly crispy without being heavy.
• Family-friendly comfort food – Perfect for kids and adults alike, this dish brings everyone to the table.
• Quick and easy – With only 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
• Versatile dinner option – Pairs beautifully with pasta, salad, or roasted veggies, making it one of the best chicken dinner recipes.
• Healthier than fried chicken – Oven-baking gives you that golden crunch without deep frying.

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Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe – Crispy, Juicy, and Irresistible

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken that’s golden on the outside, juicy inside, and easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

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• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 heaping teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and place rack in the top third.

2. Slice chicken in half lengthwise for four thinner pieces. Pat dry with paper towel, then season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Set up breading station: flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and a mix of panko, parmesan, and Italian seasoning in a third.

4. Heat skillet: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.

5. Bread chicken: Coat each piece first in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly so crumbs stick.

6. Pan-sear chicken: Cook 2 pieces at a time for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Add remaining oil for the second batch.

7. Bake chicken: Return all pieces to skillet and transfer to oven. Bake 5 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F.

8. Serve hot: Enjoy immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Don’t skip patting chicken dry—this helps the breading stick.

Fresh parmesan makes a big difference in flavor and texture.

Cook in batches to prevent overcrowding in the skillet.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g

Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 heaping teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Ingredient Tips Table

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and place rack in the top third of the oven for even browning.
2. Prep the chicken by slicing each breast in half lengthwise, patting dry, and seasoning with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Set up breading station: Bowl 1 with flour, Bowl 2 with beaten eggs, Bowl 3 with panko, parmesan, and Italian seasoning.
4. Heat skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat while preparing the chicken.
5. Bread the chicken by dipping first in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture. Shake off excess at each step and press gently for coating to stick.
6. Pan-fry in batches: Cook 2 chicken pieces at a time for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Add remaining tablespoon of olive oil for the second batch.
7. Bake to finish: Arrange all chicken in skillet and transfer to oven. Bake for 5 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F.
8. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Helpful Tips

• Pat chicken completely dry before breading for the crispiest crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet—fry in batches to keep the coating golden.
• Use tongs for easy flipping without losing the crust.
• Always check doneness with a meat thermometer for perfect results.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Slice evenly – Uniform chicken thickness ensures even cooking.
• Press breadcrumbs firmly – This helps the coating stick better during frying.
• Use an oven-proof skillet – Saves you from transferring dishes and keeps the crust intact.
• Let rest briefly – Allow chicken to sit a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Upgrade – Add mozzarella on top before baking for a melty twist.
• Spicy Parmesan Chicken – Mix chili flakes or cayenne into the breadcrumb coating for a kick.
• Herb Lover’s Version – Swap Italian seasoning for fresh parsley, thyme, or basil.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use almond flour and gluten-free panko.

Make Ahead & Freezer Tips

You can bread the chicken up to a day ahead and refrigerate it until ready to cook. For freezing, bread the chicken, lay pieces on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this parmesan crusted chicken over buttery pasta, with a crisp green salad, or alongside roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a restaurant-style presentation.

Pairing Ideas

This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon. Side dishes like garlic mashed potatoes, Caesar salad, or simple buttered noodles complement it beautifully.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to keep the crust crispy. For a quick option, microwave in short bursts, though the crust won’t be as crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, but make sure to adjust cooking time since thighs take longer.

Do I have to use panko breadcrumbs? Regular breadcrumbs work too, but panko gives extra crunch.

Can I skip the pan-frying step? Yes, you can bake directly, but pan-frying adds color and crispness.

What’s the best cheese substitute for parmesan? Asiago or Romano cheese work well for a similar sharp flavor.

Can I air fry this recipe? Absolutely—cook at 375°F for about 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked? Always use a thermometer. Chicken is safe at 165°F.

Is this recipe kid-friendly? Definitely! The crispy coating and mild seasoning make it a family favorite.

Nutrition Info (per serving)

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

Conclusion

This parmesan crusted chicken is golden, juicy, and everything you want in a comfort meal. Whether you’re craving breaded chicken recipes or simple baked chicken breast recipes, this one will win your heart and your dinner table. Give it a try tonight—you’ll love every crunchy, cheesy bite!