Table of Contents
Introduction
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with cheesy, garlicky goodness—Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that’s both elegant and easy to make. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss.
I still remember the first time I made Parmesan Crusted Chicken. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted something warm and satisfying. With just a few pantry staples and a craving for something crispy, I whipped up this dish. The golden crust, the tender chicken, and the aroma of Parmesan filled the kitchen, making it an instant family favorite.
What makes this dish so special? It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it with pasta, salad, or your favorite veggies.
If you’ve tried our Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe, you’ll love this variation. While both dishes feature crispy, cheesy chicken, Parmesan Crusted Chicken skips the marinara sauce, letting the savory crust shine.
Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the world of Parmesan Crusted Chicken and discover seven irresistible recipes that will make your taste buds dance.
What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful dish where chicken breasts are coated in a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then baked or pan-fried to golden perfection. The result? A crispy, flavorful crust that locks in the chicken’s natural juices, creating a tender and savory main course.
But why is it called “Parmesan Crusted”? Well, the name says it all—the star of the show is the Parmesan cheese crust that envelops the chicken. It’s like giving your chicken a cheesy, crunchy hug!
Fun fact: Did you know that Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, is often referred to as the “King of Cheeses”? Its rich, nutty flavor adds depth to any dish, making it the perfect choice for this recipe.
As the saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” And with Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’re sure to win hearts all around the dinner table. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Chicken
1. Crispy, Cheesy Perfection
The combination of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs creates a crust that’s both crispy and flavorful. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by tender, juicy chicken. It’s a texture and taste sensation that’s hard to beat.
2. Budget-Friendly Gourmet
Who says gourmet meals have to break the bank? With simple ingredients like chicken breasts, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without the hefty price tag. It’s an economical choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
3. Versatile and Family-Friendly
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides—think pasta, salads, or roasted vegetables. It’s also a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners.
If you’re a fan of our Baked Chicken Parmesan, this recipe offers a delightful twist by focusing on the cheesy crust without the marinara sauce. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves crispy, flavorful chicken.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Quick Overview
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a straightforward recipe that delivers big on flavor. With a prep time of about 15 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 40 minutes. The key is in the crust—a blend of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs that crisps up beautifully in the oven or skillet.
Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Chicken breasts | 4 pieces | Boneless, skinless |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup, grated | Freshly grated for best flavor |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup | Panko or Italian-style |
| Eggs | 2, beaten | For dredging |
| All-purpose flour | ½ cup | For dredging |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Adds depth of flavor |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Optional, for added herb flavor |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | |
| Olive oil or butter | 2 tbsp | For pan-frying or drizzling before baking |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking.
- Set Up Dredging Stations:
- In the first shallow dish, place the flour seasoned with salt and pepper.
- In the second dish, beat the eggs.
- In the third dish, combine the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Dredge the Chicken:
- Lightly coat each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.
- Press into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.
- Cook the Chicken:
- For Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the coated chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the crust is golden and the chicken is cooked through.
- For Pan-Frying:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- For Baking:
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
What to Serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions to complete your meal:
- Pasta: Serve over spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in a light garlic and olive oil sauce.
- Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with a vinaigrette complement the richness of the chicken.
- Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sautéed green beans add color and nutrition.EatingWell
- Potatoes: Mashed potatoes, roasted baby potatoes, or a creamy potato gratin make for hearty sides.
- Bread: Warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any juices.
Top Tips for Perfecting Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides superior flavor compared to pre-grated versions.
- Pound Evenly: Ensuring the chicken breasts are of even thickness helps them cook uniformly.
- Don’t Skip the Flour: The flour layer helps the egg adhere to the chicken, which in turn helps the breadcrumb mixture stick.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain its juices.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When pan-frying, cook in batches if necessary to prevent the chicken from steaming instead of crisping.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months.The Recipe Critic
- Reheating:
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place
More Recipes with Chicken to Try :
- How to make Easy Chicken with Peppers, Onions & Mushrooms Recipe
- More Flavorful Ways to Enjoy Chicken Breast Recipes
- How to make Mushroom Chicken Recipes: Creamy, Skillet & One-Pan
Parmesan Crusted Chicken: 7 Irresistibly Amazing Recipes
- Total Time: 30 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Craving a crispy dinner upgrade? These Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipes are packed with flavor and easy prep tips. Discover your new favorite tonight.
Ingredients
For Breading
- ½ cup all purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- ⅔ cup seasoned Italian bread crumbs (I use Progresso)
- ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme, parsley, chives or rosemary
For Chicken
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds), pounded ¼”-thick (see note)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Set up three large shallow bowls in an assembly line. Put the flour in the first bowl; beat the eggs in the second bowl; and mix the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs in the third bowl.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge the first chicken breast in the flour and shake off the excess until just a light coating remains. Next, dip the chicken in the egg mixture and turn to coat evenly, letting any excess egg drip off. Finally, dredge the chicken in the bread crumb mixture, turning a few times to coat well. Set breaded chicken on a plate and repeat until all of the chicken breasts are breaded.
- Heat the oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the first side is golden brown. Flip and continue cooking until done, 2 to 3 minutes longer. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
If the breasts are large (8 ounces or more), you can either cut them in half crosswise after pounding to create smaller portions or slice them in half horizontally before pounding to make thinner cutlets that won’t spread as much when pounded.
Make-Ahead Instructions: You can bread the chicken up to one day in advance to save time. Simply follow the breading steps, then place the chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before frying to ensure even cooking.
Freezing Instructions: To freeze before cooking, place the breaded chicken in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, 1 to 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Store for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then pan-fry as directed. To freeze after cooking, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the coating soggy.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 562 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 1218 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 48 g
- Cholesterol: 223 mg
Keywords: Parmesan Crusted Chicken, easy chicken recipe, crispy chicken, weeknight dinner