Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a crispy, crunchy, and flavorful Italian dish that offers a perfect combination of flavors and textures. This dish typically features chicken breast coated with a mixture of Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, and basic seasonings and herbs. The result is a crunchy and flavorful crust that enhances the juicy and tender chicken meat.
These Parmesan Crusted Chicken breasts are considered one of the best-fried chicken dishes, making them an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner. They pair wonderfully with salads, roasted or baked vegetables, sautéed dishes, or your preferred dipping sauces.
The recipe I have shared provides easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions with images for making Parmesan Crusted Chicken. For a visual guide, there is also a detailed video included below, which further clarifies the cooking process and ensures a visually clear understanding.
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What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delectable dish known for its irresistible combination of a crispy, crunchy, and cheesy exterior with a juicy interior. It is usually made with chicken breast, Parmesan cheese, herbs, and basic seasonings. This Parmesan Crusted Chicken is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends. It pairs well with a variety of vegetable side dishes, roasted or baked vegetables, salad, pasta dishes, or dips offering a complete and fulfilling meal.
What sets Parmesan Crusted Chicken apart from other fried chicken recipes is its versatility and ease of preparation. It offers a delightful twist on traditional fried chicken with the addition of Parmesan cheese, which brings a rich and savory flavor profile.
One of the standout features of this dish is its adaptability - besides frying, it can be baked or even air fried for a healthier alternative. This allows you to enjoy the same crispy and cheesy experience with reduced oil and calories.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a great option for busy days when you want to prepare a quick and easy chicken dinner that will please your family, guests, or even yourself. Its Italian-inspired flavors make it a go-to dish when you crave a taste of Italy.
Overall, Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful Italian dish that satisfies cravings for a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful chicken experience. Whether you're serving it to your family, or guests, or simply indulging yourself, Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a fantastic choice that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The ingredients you will need to make this Parmesan Crusted Chicken are basic Italian pantry ingredients that can be easily found in most retail grocery markets. Let's explore each ingredient and its significance below:
- Chicken Breast: Use boneless, thinly sliced chicken breast or chicken tenders for even cooking. This ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy throughout the process
- Parmesan Cheese: The Parmesan cheese lends a rich and savory flavor profile to the chicken. It adds a delightful nuttiness and enhances the overall taste of the dish
- All-Purpose Flour: Coating the chicken with all-purpose flour helps create a crispy and golden-brown crust when fried or baked. It adds a light texture to the dish, making it more enjoyable to bite into
- Seasonings: Basic seasonings like garlic, onion, black pepper, and salt enhance the flavors of the chicken. They add depth and balance to the dish, elevating its taste
- Herbs: Dried parsley or Italian seasoning can be used to introduce herbal notes and a touch of freshness to the Parmesan Crusted Chicken. They contribute to the overall aroma and flavor profile
- Beaten Eggs: The beaten eggs serve as a binding agent, helping the Parmesan mixture adhere to the chicken. They provide moisture and contribute to the development of a flavorful crust
- Sriracha Sauce or Hot Sauce: Adding Sriracha sauce or your preferred hot sauce adds a kick of heat and additional layers of flavor to the Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Oil: Oil is required for frying the chicken. It helps achieve a crispy exterior while ensuring the chicken remains moist and tender inside. You can use your preferred oil here, but oils such as canola, peanut, and corn oil are known to impart excellent flavors to fried chicken
For a detailed ingredients list, please check out the recipe card below.
How to Make Parmesan-Crusted Chicken at Home?
The recipe I have shared here is Parmesan Crusted Chicken, a flavorful and crispy Italian-inspired dish. It features tender chicken breasts coated in a savory Parmesan cheese crust. The Parmesan cheese brings a rich and savory flavor that perfectly complements the juicy chicken. It is a crowd-pleasing favorite that combines simplicity with deliciousness, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.
Below are the high-level instructions for this recipe, but for detailed step-by-step instructions with photos and a video, please see the recipe card below.
Marinate Chicken
- Mix the spices: Let's start by marinating the chicken. Grab a bowl and add the seasonings like onion, garlic, black pepper powder, parsley, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly
- Add eggs and sauce: Now, it's time to add the beaten eggs and your favorite hot sauce, such as sriracha or any other hot sauce of your choice. Give it a good mix, ensuring all the flavors are well incorporated
- Coat the chicken: Take the thinly sliced boneless chicken breast and coat it evenly with the marinade. Make sure each piece is nicely covered. I suggest using thinly sliced breasts, boneless strips, or chicken tenders for easier cooking
- Rest the chicken: Once the chicken is coated, cover the bowl with a lid and let it rest for at least 15 to 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to infuse into the meat, resulting in a more delicious outcome
Coat the Chicken
- Prep Parmesan Mix: Now let's move on to coating the chicken with Parmesan. In a shallow tray, combine all-purpose flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, black pepper powder, and salt. Mix them well together. Remember, if you're using Parmesan cheese, adjust the salt quantity accordingly. You can also add some panko breadcrumbs to the flour mixture if you prefer
- Coat the Chicken: Take the marinated chicken breast and coat it generously with the Parmesan mixture. Make sure all sides are evenly coated. For a better understanding, refer to the picture below in the recipe card for visual guidance
Prep Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Fry the Chicken: It's time to make Parmesan Crusted Chicken! Heat a pan over medium heat and pour in some oil. Place the Parmesan-coated chicken breast in the pan and fry it for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Make sure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer, as recommended by the FDA
- Remove and Enjoy: Once the chicken is nicely fried, remove it from the oil and let it rest for a moment. Now it's time for you to taste and enjoy this delightful Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Note: I have also provided instructions on how to make this dish in the oven in the section below, offering a healthier alternative.
Can I Bake This Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Yes, you can bake this Parmesan Crusted Chicken for a healthier alternative. Here's how:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased
- Marinate & coat chicken: Follow the marinating and coating steps as mentioned earlier, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the Parmesan mixture
- Place the chicken: Instead of frying the chicken, place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each piece for even cooking. You can also spray the chicken cutlets with some oil
- Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust turns golden brown. You can check the doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, which should read 165°F (74°C)
- Remove: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving
By baking the Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you can enjoy a healthier version of this dish without compromising on taste and texture.
Tips
- Thinly slice the chicken breast: Using thinly sliced chicken breast or chicken tenders will ensure even cooking and a crispy crust
- Properly marinate the chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 to 30 minutes. This will help infuse the flavors and tenderize the meat
- Coat the chicken evenly: Make sure to coat the chicken breasts evenly with the Parmesan mixture. This will result in a consistent and crispy crust
- Press the coating firmly: After coating the chicken, gently press the Parmesan mixture onto the surface of the chicken to ensure it adheres well
- Use a non-stick pan or parchment-lined baking sheet: If you choose to fry the chicken, using a non-stick pan will help prevent sticking. Alternatively, when baking, line the baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to avoid the chicken from sticking to the surface
- Preheat the oil or oven: Whether you're frying or baking, make sure you heat the oil or preheat the oven to the ideal temperature. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a crispy crust
- Monitor the cooking time and temperature: Keep a close eye on the chicken while cooking to prevent overcooking or undercooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety
- Allow the chicken to rest: After cooking, let the Parmesan Crusted Chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute and keep the chicken moist
Storage Suggestions
You can store Crusted Parmesan chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Once you have cooked the chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or tightly wrapping it in plastic wrap or foil. By storing it properly, you can maintain the quality and flavor of the chicken for a few days.
If you wish to store the chicken for an extended period, you have the option to freeze it. Individually wrap each piece in plastic wrap or foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. You can store frozen Parmesan chicken for up to 2-3 months.
When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers or frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. To retain its crispy texture, I would recommend reheating the chicken in the oven at a low temperature. Avoid using the microwave, as it may result in a soggy crust.
Always ensure that the chicken is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming. Trust your judgment and discard the chicken if you notice any signs of spoilage or an unusual odor.
Serving Suggestions
Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is a delicious dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few options you can consider:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. The roasted flavors complement the chicken nicely
- Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken
- Pasta Dishes: Pair the chicken with a side of pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. Toss the pasta with a creamy Alfredo sauce, or a simple marinara sauce for a satisfying meal
- Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, or roasted potatoes make a comforting and hearty side dish that complements the crispy chicken
- Rice Dishes: Serve the Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with a flavorful rice pilaf made with herbs, vegetables, and spices. The rice provides an excellent base for the chicken and adds variety to the meal
- Sauteed Dishes: Sauteed dishes like zucchini, mushrooms, asparagus, green beans, spinach, kale, or cabbage make a healthy meal with these crispy chicken
- Sauces: Tartar sauce, honey mustard sauce, chili sauce, ketchup, or mango chutney make an excellent addition to this fried chicken
Related Recipes
You could also find similar recipes below and more at chicken breast recipes and Italian recipes.
- Chicken Parmesan
- Baked Chicken Parmesan
- Garlic Parmesan Wings
- Eggplant Parmesan
- Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Garlic Butter Chicken
- Lemon Chicken
- Spinach Stuffed Chicken
- Baked chicken Breast
- Fried Chicken
- Fried Chicken Wings
More recipes with Parmesan cheese:
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Video
I have also shared a detailed video of this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe below that I hope will help you make a crispy chicken dish at home. You can also find this recipe in a story format.
📖 Recipe
Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients
For Marinade
- 4 piece Boneless Chicken Breast, thinly sliced, or use chicken tenders
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- ½ tsp Black Pepper Powder
- 1 tsp Dried Parsley, or Italian seasoning also works well
- Salt, to taste
- 3 tbsp Sriracha Sauce, or hot sauce of your choice
- 2 Eggs, beaten
For Parmesan Mixture
- 1½ cup All Purpose Flour
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese
- ½ cup Panko Breadcrumb, optional, I haven't used it here
- ½ tsp Onion Powder
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder
- ½ tsp Black Pepper Powder
- ½ tsp Salt, or adjust to taste
Other Ingredients
- 3 tbsp Oil, for frying
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Marinade:
- Begin by taking a bowl and combining the seasonings, including onion, garlic, black pepper powder, parsley, and salt. Thoroughly mix these ingredients together
- Next, add the beaten eggs and your preferred hot sauce, such as sriracha, into the bowl. Give it a good stir to ensure all the flavors are well combined
- Now, it's time to add the thinly sliced boneless chicken breast to the marinade. Coat the chicken evenly with the mixture, ensuring each piece is well covered. For convenience and quick cooking, I recommend using thinly sliced breast, boneless strips, or chicken tenders
- Once the chicken is coated, tightly close the bowl with a lid and allow it to marinate for a minimum of 15 to 30 minutes. This resting period will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and enhance its taste
Coating the Chicken with Parmesan:
- Prepare a shallow tray and add all-purpose flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, black pepper powder, and salt to it. Keep in mind that Parmesan cheese already contains salt, so adjust the salt quantity accordingly. If desired, you can also incorporate ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs into the flour mixture for added texture and crunch. Thoroughly mix all the ingredients together
- Taking the marinated chicken breast, coat each piece generously with the Parmesan mixture. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated on all sides. For a better understanding of the process, you can refer to the accompanying picture
Prep Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- In a pan set over medium heat, pour an adequate amount of oil and carefully place the Parmesan-coated chicken breast in it
- Fry the chicken for approximately 5 to 7 minutes on each side, until it achieves a golden-brown crust. Feel free to reduce the heat to medium-low if you think the chicken is browning quickly. To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) as recommended by the FDA. You can utilize a meat thermometer to accurately measure the temperature
- Once the chicken is fried to perfection, remove it from the oil and let it rest for a moment. Now, it's time for you to savor and relish the delectable Parmesan Crusted Chicken
To Serve:
- Serve this crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken alongside various dipping sauces such as tartar sauce, honey mustard sauce, garlic aioli, chili sauce, mayo, or ketchup. To complement the flavors, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables, or sautéed spinach or kale. These additions will contribute to a truly gratifying dining experience
Video
Notes
- Thinly slice the chicken breast: Using thinly sliced chicken breast or chicken tenders will ensure even cooking and a crispy crust
- Properly marinate the chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 to 30 minutes. This will help infuse the flavors and tenderize the meat
- Coat the chicken evenly: Make sure to coat the chicken breasts evenly with the Parmesan mixture. This will result in a consistent and crispy crust
- Press the coating firmly: After coating the chicken, gently press the Parmesan mixture onto the surface of the chicken to ensure it adheres well
- Use a non-stick pan or parchment-lined baking sheet: If you choose to fry the chicken, using a non-stick pan will help prevent sticking. Alternatively, when baking, line the baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to avoid the chicken from sticking to the surface
- Preheat the oil or oven: Whether you're frying or baking, make sure you heat the oil or preheat the oven to the ideal temperature. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a crispy crust
- Monitor the cooking time and temperature: Keep a close eye on the chicken while cooking to prevent overcooking or undercooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety
- Allow the chicken to rest: After cooking, let the Parmesan Crusted Chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute and keep the chicken moist
Nutrition
FAQ
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is an Italian dish known for its crispy and savory Parmesan cheese crust. It is made by covering the chicken breast with a mixture of Parmesan cheese, seasonings, and herbs, then frying or baking until golden and delicious. It pairs well with a variety of sides, salads, pasta dishes, or dips offering a complete and fulfilling meal.
When prepared and consumed in moderation, Parmesan chicken contributes to a healthy diet. The lean protein in chicken promotes health, while Parmesan cheese adds calcium and flavor. However, the cooking method and portion size significantly influence its health. Opting for baking or air frying over deep-frying decreases added fats and calories. Enhancing the meal's nutritional value is possible by serving it with wholesome sides like steamed vegetables or a salad.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. Alternatively, you can enjoy it alongside steamed rice or pasta for a more substantial option.
I hope you found the recipe enjoyable and I would appreciate hearing about your experience with it.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to leave a comment and I will do my best to respond promptly. Thank you for reading and happy cooking!
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