Parmesan Crusted Chicken, a crispy and flavorful Italian dish, combines tender chicken breast with a crunchy Parmesan cheese and herb crust. Regarded as one of the finest fried chicken variations, it's ideal for both lunch and dinner and pairs well with salads, roasted vegetables, or your favorite sauces.
Start by mixing onion, garlic, parsley, black pepper, and salt in a bowl until well combined.
Whisk the beaten eggs with your choice of hot sauce, such as sriracha, until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Place thinly sliced chicken breasts into the mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Cover the bowl and let the chicken sit in the marinade for 15 to 30 minutes to deeply infuse the flavors into the meat.
To Coate the Chicken with Parmesan
In a shallow tray, combine all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a pinch of black pepper. Remember, Parmesan is salty, so go easy on the added salt. For extra crunch, feel free to mix in ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs.
Dip each marinated chicken breast into the Parmesan blend, covering thoroughly for an even layer.
To Prep Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Set a pan over medium heat and add oil. Once hot, place the Parmesan-coated chicken breasts in the pan.
Fry each side for 5 to 7 minutes until they're golden brown. If they brown too fast, lower the heat to medium-low. Check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it's reached 165°F (74°C), following FDA guidelines for safety.
After frying, take the chicken out of the pan and let it rest briefly. Then, it's ready to be enjoyed – your Parmesan Crusted Chicken is served!
To Serve:
Enjoy your crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with a selection of dipping sauces like tartar, honey mustard, garlic aioli, chili sauce, mayo, or ketchup. Pair it with roasted veggies, or sautéed greens like spinach or kale for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Notes
Here are some valuable tips for perfecting your Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
Thinly Sliced Chicken: Use thinly sliced chicken breast or tenders for uniform cooking and a crispier crust.
Marinate Well: Marinate the chicken for 15 to 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderize the meat.
Even Coating: Ensure an even coating of the Parmesan mixture for a consistent, crispy crust.
Firm Coating Press: Gently press the Parmesan mixture onto the chicken to make sure it sticks well.
Non-Stick Cooking Surface: Use a non-stick pan for frying, or a parchment-lined baking sheet for baking, to prevent sticking.
Preheat Oil or Oven: Heat the oil properly for frying, or preheat the oven for baking, to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
Monitor Cooking: Watch the cooking process closely. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken's internal temperature, which should be 165°F (74°C).
Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest post-cooking to redistribute the juices, keeping it moist and flavorful.