If you are looking for a dish that’s both impressive and incredibly comforting, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. With a perfectly crispy, golden crust made from Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, every bite bursts with rich, savory flavors and a delightful crunch. It’s a simple-to-make recipe that combines creamy Dijon and mayonnaise for moisture, yet bakes or fries up beautifully, making it an instant family favorite. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight meal or preparing something special, this dish brings together ease, elegance, and incredible taste all in one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but vibrant ingredients is the first step to nailing this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the sharpness of fresh Parmesan to the crunchy texture delivered by panko crumbs, creating a harmony of flavors and sensations that make the final dish unforgettable.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: These provide the tender, juicy base that carries the crust beautifully.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds that unmistakable nutty, salty flavor and browns to a perfect crisp.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Gives the crust an airy crunch that contrasts the tender chicken beneath.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the coating with subtle, savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brightens and elevates the crust’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings balance.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a mild kick to the seasoning mix.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Keeps the chicken moist and helps the crust adhere strongly.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds tanginess and depth to the creamy coating.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for pan-frying or drizzling if baking, ensuring golden crispiness.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, colorful touch to finish the dish.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven or skillet
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you plan to bake, or warm a large skillet over medium heat with 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil if pan-frying. Getting the cooking vessel ready ensures a perfectly crisp crust and timed cooking.
Step 2: Mix the coatings
Next, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard in a small bowl—this duo will create the creamy, tangy base that sticks the crust to the chicken. In a separate bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend is what transforms each bite into something extraordinary.
Step 3: Prep the chicken breasts
Even thickness is key! Pound the chicken breasts down to approximately half an inch thick for uniform cooking and ensure they’re perfectly juicy. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the coating stick without sliding off.
Step 4: Coat the chicken
Brush each breast with the mayo-mustard mixture on both sides, allowing this flavorful layer to form a sticky foundation. Then, press the chicken into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, covering it thoroughly. The more even and thick the coating, the crunchier and tastier your chicken will be.
Step 5: Cooking methods
For oven-baking, place the coated chicken on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Give each piece a light drizzle of olive oil to promote a crispy crust and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. If you want an extra golden finish, broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes at the end. For pan-frying, simply heat the olive oil until shimmering and cook the breasts for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until the crust is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Finish by sprinkling with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of herbal brightness. Serve immediately while the crust is still perfectly crunchy and the inside juicy.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice, adding vibrant green and a subtle herbal note that complements the rich chicken beautifully. For an additional zing, squeeze a little lemon juice over the top just before serving—this brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
Pair your Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe with roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a healthy, colorful plate. Creamy mashed potatoes or a light pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic are comforting and satisfying options to soak up any leftover juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken breasts into strips and serve atop a fresh green salad. You can also layer the chicken over a bed of lemon-infused quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb, elegant presentation that’s perfect for entertaining or a special family meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain some of the crispiness, avoid covering the chicken with sauce until ready to serve again.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil or stored in a freezer-safe container. They keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
The best way to reheat this dish without losing its crunch is in a hot oven at 375°F, uncovered, for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more fat and flavor, and they can make an even juicier Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Just be sure to adjust cooking times since thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it necessary to use mayonnaise in the coating?
Mayonnaise helps keep the chicken moist and ensures the breadcrumb mixture sticks well, leading to that golden crust. You could substitute with Greek yogurt or a beaten egg, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To keep this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free panko or breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What are some seasoning variations I can try?
Feel free to add lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a bright citrusy flavor, or switch up Italian seasoning with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different aroma. Smoked paprika also adds a subtle smoky depth.
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Even thickness through pounding ensures even cooking, so the meat doesn’t dry out. Also, don’t overcook it—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F, and resting the chicken for a few minutes before slicing helps the juices redistribute.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about a recipe that combines ease, flavor, and crunch in such perfect harmony. This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe invites you to enjoy a dish that feels special but comes together quickly with everyday ingredients. Whether you bake it or pan-fry it, the result is a crispy, golden-crusted meal bursting with flavor that you’ll want to make again and again. Go ahead, give it a try and watch it become a firm favorite in your recipe collection!
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Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and seasonings. It can be baked to crispy perfection in the oven or pan-fried for a golden, crunchy crust. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal, this dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, salad, or pasta.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Binding Mixture
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Cooking and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying or baking drizzle)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat or Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1–2 tablespoons olive oil for pan-frying.
- Mix Coatings: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard to create the binding mixture. In another bowl, mix grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper thoroughly.
- Prepare Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Coat Chicken: Brush each chicken breast generously with the mayo-mustard mixture on both sides, then press firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly and thoroughly.
- Bake Option: Place the coated chicken on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
- Pan-Fry Option: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the cooked chicken if desired and serve hot with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, salad, or pasta.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture before coating the chicken.
- This recipe works well with chicken tenders for a quicker cooking time.
- Serve paired with roasted vegetables, fresh salad, or your favorite pasta for a complete meal.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
