Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 boneless (skinless chicken breasts); 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Indulge in the rich flavors of parmesan crusted chicken, a dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts and a golden, cheesy crust. This recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delightful meal that will impress your family and friends. Whether served for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 2 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 chicken breast) contains approximately 350 calories, 25g protein, 20g fat, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fiber.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumb mixture and stir until evenly coated.
4. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
5. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
6. Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to coat evenly.
7. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier flavor. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Nutritional yeast can be used instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.

Serving and Pairings

Parmesan crusted chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes, making it a versatile dish for any meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the crust.

Cooking Mistakes

– Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender.
– Ensure the oil is evenly mixed with breadcrumbs for a uniform crust.
– Don’t skip patting the chicken dry; moisture prevents crispiness.
– Use fresh breadcrumbs for better flavor.
– Preheat the oven properly before baking.

Helpful Tips

– Let the chicken rest after baking for juiciness.
– Experiment with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture.
– For extra crunch, broil for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
– Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.

What can I serve with Parmesan crusted chicken?

This dish goes well with vegetables, salads, or pasta for a balanced meal.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Simply replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain the texture and flavor.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, you can coat the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What should I do if the crust isn’t crispy?

Make sure to use enough oil in the breadcrumb mixture and ensure your oven is properly preheated.

Conclusion

Parmesan crusted chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines flavor and texture in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress anyone at your table. Enjoy your delicious creation!