Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Cozy Favorite for Any Family Table

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about the aroma of chicken baking in the oven, especially when it’s coated in a golden Parmesan crust that crackles with every bite. As the sun sets and the kitchen fills with enticing smells, it feels like a gentle hug, welcoming you home after a long day. This is precisely why Parmesan Crusted Chicken will become your new go-to dish—a comforting dinner that not only pleases the palate but also brings loved ones around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is more than just food; it’s an experience that binds families together. Here are a few reasons why Parmesan Crusted Chicken stands out:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Suitable for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a festive meal with friends.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its crispy, cheesy exterior and juicy inside make it an indulgent treat everyone will love.
• Healthier Option: Opt for baked rather than fried, keeping the comfort without the guilt.
• Great for Leftovers: Delicious on its own or in salads and wraps the next day.

Ingredients with Notes

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for the perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Fresh meat ensures juiciness.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: Opt for panko for extra crunch.
• 2 eggs: Helps the cheese and breadcrumbs adhere beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Fresh garlic works too for deeper flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a hint of warmth and color.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), for garnish: Brings a refreshing finish.

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

This quick meal allows you more time to enjoy with family, making it perfect for a weekday dinner or last-minute gatherings.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s nice and hot for that crispy crust.
2. Prepare your chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating stick better and yields a crispier texture.
3. Set up your dredging stations: In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix the Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg, allowing the excess to drip off. Then, coat it thoroughly in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press down firmly to ensure the coating sticks well.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes for an easy clean-up.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You’ll notice the crust turning golden brown and your kitchen filling with an irresistible aroma.
7. Optional: For an even crispier crust, broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
8. Rest the chicken for a few minutes before serving. This step lets the juices settle, keeping each bite wonderfully moist.

Tips and Variations

• Healthier Swaps: Use whole-wheat breadcrumbs for added nutrition, or swap out the Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
• Seasonal Twists: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh seasonal touch. For zesty flavors, incorporate lemon zest into the breadcrumb mixture.
• Flavor Upgrades: For a kick, include red pepper flakes in the breadcrumb mix.

Serving Ideas

Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken elegantly with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a colorful garden salad. Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine to elevate your meal. Picture this dish gracing your dining table during a cozy family gathering, with laughter echoing and love radiating from the kitchen. It’s a meal that transforms any ordinary night into a joyful occasion.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but possible!), store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through to maintain that crispy crust. You can also freeze the uncooked, coated chicken for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge before baking.

Chef’s Pro Tips

1. Pound the chicken to ensure even cooking—this helps achieve that tender bite we all crave.
2. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep those juices where they belong.
3. Use fresh herbs as a garnish for a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish and your day.

FAQs

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work beautifully with this recipe.
• What if I’m gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Can I prep this in advance? Yes! Bread the chicken ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator, bake it when ready.

Conclusion

As you set the table and let the wonderful aroma fill your home, remember that Parmesan Crusted Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s an invitation to gather, share stories, and create memories. So go ahead—dive into this comforting homemade recipe, share it with your loved ones, and relish every smile it brings. Enjoy the warmth of good food and great company!

Contents

• 1 Parmesan Crusted Chicken
  • 1.1 Ingredients  
    • 1.1.1 Main Ingredients
  • 1.2 Instructions 
    • 1.2.1 Preparation
    • 1.2.2 Cooking
  • 1.3 Notes

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This comforting dish features chicken breasts coated in a crispy, cheesy Parmesan crust, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Fresh meat ensures juiciness.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs Opt for panko for extra crunch.
• 2 pieces eggs Helps the cheese and breadcrumbs adhere beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic works too for deeper flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika Adds a hint of warmth and color.
• Salt to taste Salt and pepper Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) Fresh herbs for garnish Brings a refreshing finish.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
• In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix the Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Dip each chicken breast into the egg, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
• Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Cooking

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Optional: For an even crispier crust, broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes.
• Rest the chicken for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Use whole-wheat breadcrumbs or a dairy-free cheese for healthier options. Enhance flavor with fresh herbs or lemon zest. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Keyword chicken recipe, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Meal, Parmesan Chicken

Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 contact@dailypan.com • Pinterest