Are you looking for a quick and tasty meal? Look no further! Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is simple to make and packed with flavor. In this post, I’ll guide you through easy steps to prepare this delicious dish, plus tips for the perfect crispy crust. Whether you’re a kitchen beginner or a seasoned chef, you’ll find everything you need to impress your family or guests. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Needed
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crunch)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
For this baked Parmesan crusted chicken, the main ingredients are simple yet flavorful. The chicken breasts are the star of the dish, providing lean protein. Parmesan cheese gives a rich taste and a nice, crispy texture. I prefer using Panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier crust. Garlic powder and Italian herbs add depth and aroma to the dish.
Optional Garnishes
– Fresh parsley
– Additional cheese variations
For garnishes, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness. You can also mix in different cheese types, like mozzarella or cheddar, to switch up the flavor. These options let you personalize the dish to your taste. Remember, the more you play with these ingredients, the more fun it gets. You can find the full recipe to dive deeper into the cooking process.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Preheating the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for crispiness. A hot oven helps the crust turn golden brown.
Preparing the Baking Sheet
Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup. It also helps prevent the chicken from sticking, which is always a win.
Coating the Chicken
Egg Dipping Process
In a shallow bowl, beat two large eggs. This mixture will help the crust stick. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, making sure it is fully coated. Let any extra egg drip off.
Crust Mixture Application
In another bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Press the egg-coated chicken into this mixture. Ensure both sides are coated well. The more you press, the better it sticks.
Baking Instructions
Cooking Time
Place the coated chicken breasts on the baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the top for added flavor. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
Checking Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a nice touch.
For the full recipe, look for the detailed instructions above.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crust
Choosing the right breadcrumbs is key. I like using Panko. Panko gives a light, crunchy texture. Regular breadcrumbs may work, but they don’t have the same bite. Always look for unseasoned types. This allows your chicken’s flavor to shine.
For a crunchier coating, try these tips:
– Double Coat: Dip the chicken in egg, then breadcrumbs. Repeat for an extra layer.
– Oil Drizzle: Olive oil helps the crust brown and stay crunchy.
– Hot Oven: A preheated oven at 400°F works best for crispiness.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
Adding spices and herbs can change the game. I love garlic powder and Italian herbs. They add great depth to the chicken. You can also try paprika for a smoky kick.
Experimenting with cheese types can also be fun. While Parmesan is classic, mixing in some mozzarella brings a melty texture. You could even use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. Enjoy trying new cheese blends to find your favorite!
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily swap ingredients to fit your taste.
– Chicken Thighs or Tenders: You can use chicken thighs or tenders instead of breasts. Thighs will stay juicy, while tenders cook faster. Both options taste great with the crust.
– Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. They still give a nice crunch and flavor. Just check the label to ensure they fit your diet.
Flavor Twists
Changing flavors can make this dish new and fun.
– Southwest Style with Chili Powder: Add some chili powder to the crust for a spicy kick. This twist gives the chicken a warm, smoky flavor that pairs well with salsa.
– Italian Style with Sundried Tomatoes: Chop sundried tomatoes and mix them into the crust. This adds a tangy, rich flavor that enhances the Italian herbs. It’s a simple way to make the dish feel gourmet.
These variations make Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken even more exciting. You can always explore new tastes while keeping the base recipe intact. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
How do I store leftovers?
Store your Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. Let it cool down before placing it in the fridge.
What is the recommended shelf life?
You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days. After that, the quality may drop.
Freezing Instructions
Can I freeze uncooked vs. cooked chicken?
Yes, you can freeze both. For uncooked chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This prevents freezer burn. For cooked chicken, place it in a container or freezer bag.
What are the reheating tips for best results?
When reheating, use the oven for a crispy crust. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15-20 minutes. Check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
You can find the full recipe [here](#).
FAQs
How long does Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken take to cook?
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken takes about 25 to 30 minutes to cook. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking. This time ensures that the chicken cooks through and the crust turns golden brown. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. You can coat the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours. This makes it easy to pop in the oven when you need to serve a meal. If you want to freeze it, do so before baking. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.
What can I serve with Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
You have many tasty options to serve with this dish. Here are some ideas:
– Steamed broccoli or green beans
– Mashed potatoes or rice
– A fresh garden salad
– Roasted vegetables
These sides add color and flavor to your meal.
Where can I find the full recipe?
You can find the full recipe for Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken [here](Full Recipe). This link provides step-by-step instructions and detailed information on how to make this dish perfectly every time.
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is simple and delicious. You need a few key ingredients, like boneless chicken, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Follow the steps to coat and bake the chicken for perfect results. Use my tips for a great crust and try different flavors and swaps to make it your own. Store leftovers properly to enjoy later. You can make it ahead and pair it with tasty sides. This dish is a hit and easy to prepare. I hope you enjoy making it!
. Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken takes about 25 to 30 minutes to cook. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking. This time ensures that the chicken cooks through and the crust turns golden brown. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. You can coat the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours. This makes it easy to pop in the oven when you need to serve a meal. If you want to freeze it, do so before baking. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. You have many tasty options to serve with this dish. Here are some ideas: - Steamed broccoli or green beans - Mashed potatoes or rice - A fresh garden salad - Roasted vegetables These sides add color and flavor to your meal. You can find the full recipe for Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken [here](Full Recipe). This link provides step-by-step instructions and detailed information on how to make this dish perfectly every time. Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is simple and delicious. You need a few key ingredients, like boneless chicken, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Follow the steps to coat and bake the chicken for perfect results. Use my tips for a great crust and try different flavors and swaps to make it your own. Store leftovers properly to enjoy later. You can make it ahead and pair it with tasty sides. This dish is a hit and easy to prepare. I hope you enjoy making it!](https://recipespursuit.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1e4ec09b-18b5-46f4-9532-1459f1fe8864-250x250.webp)