Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Introduction

Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, golden crust and tender, juicy chicken. This easy-to-make dish is coated in a delicious blend of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings, then baked to perfection for a healthier twist on fried chicken. The result is a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

I first made this dish when I wanted something lighter than fried chicken but just as delicious, and it turned out to be a hit with my family. The Parmesan and breadcrumb coating crisps up beautifully in the oven, giving you that satisfying crunch with every bite. You can pair it with roasted vegetables, a salad, or even use it as a protein for a sandwich or wrap.

Whether you’re serving it for dinner with a side of veggies or packing it for lunch the next day, this Parmesan-crusted chicken will surely become a family favorite. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making again and again!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prepping
• Family gatherings
• Special occasions
• Chicken lovers

Why You’ll Love This Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Here’s why Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken will quickly become one of your go-to recipes:

• Crispy, Crunchy Crust: The Parmesan and breadcrumb coating creates a perfectly crispy texture without deep frying.
• Juicy and Tender Chicken: Baking the chicken helps retain its moisture, so each bite is tender and juicy.
• Simple Ingredients: With a few pantry staples, you can create a flavorful, satisfying dish in no time.
• Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying makes this a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Customizable: Feel free to add extra seasonings or swap out breadcrumbs for alternatives like Panko for an even crunchier crust.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 40g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor that’s key to the crispy, flavorful crust.
• Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs help form a crispy coating, and using Italian-style breadcrumbs adds extra flavor.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: These seasonings enhance the overall flavor and provide a savory depth.
• Olive Oil: Helps the crust become golden brown and crispy during baking.
• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, making them the perfect choice for this recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash: In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
4. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs to the chicken. Repeat for each piece of chicken.

Bake the Chicken:

5. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each piece to help with browning and crisping.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Cool: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

How to Serve Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Pasta: Serve the chicken alongside spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta with marinara or Alfredo sauce.
• On a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing for a light and satisfying meal.
• With Vegetables: Pair it with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a balanced, healthy meal.
• In a Sandwich: Use the chicken to make a crispy chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce or spread.
• With Rice: Serve with a side of rice pilaf, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Additional Tips for Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Here are some tips to ensure your Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated cheese.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: To ensure the chicken cooks evenly and the crust stays crispy, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
• Panko for Extra Crunch: If you want an extra crispy crust, swap the breadcrumbs for Panko breadcrumbs.
• Check the Chicken’s Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Season the Chicken: If you like extra flavor, season the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper before breading them.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to keep the juices locked in, ensuring a juicy result.

Recipe Variations for Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Here are 10 variations you can try for Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

• Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Herb Butter: Top the chicken with a dollop of herb-infused butter before baking for an added burst of flavor.
• Lemon Parmesan Chicken: Add fresh lemon zest and juice to the breadcrumb mixture for a citrusy twist.
• Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Parmesan Chicken: Mix shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese into the breadcrumbs for a cheesy, melty crust.
• Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders: Use chicken tenders instead of breasts for bite-sized, crispy chicken.
• Ranch Parmesan Chicken: Mix ranch seasoning into the breadcrumb mixture for a tangy flavor boost.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Increase the garlic powder or add fresh minced garlic to the breadcrumbs for a stronger garlic flavor.
• Baked Chicken Parmesan: Top the baked chicken with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for a Chicken Parmesan variation.
• Baked Parmesan Chicken with Pesto: Drizzle pesto over the baked chicken for a fresh, herby flavor.
• Gluten-Free Parmesan Chicken: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

Freezing and Storage for Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Freezing: You can freeze the breaded chicken before baking. Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispy crust.

Special Equipment for Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken easier:

• Shallow Dishes: Use shallow dishes for the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture for easy dipping.
• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat makes cleanup easier.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
• Tongs: Use tongs to handle the chicken without disturbing the breadcrumb coating.
• Wire Rack: If you want to ensure even crisping, place the chicken on a wire rack set over the baking sheet.

Frequently Asked Questions for Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken

1. Can I use bone-in chicken?
   Yes, but bone-in chicken will take longer to cook. Make sure to adjust the cooking time and check the internal temperature.
2. Can I make this recipe without Parmesan?
   You can substitute grated Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese if you prefer, but Parmesan adds the best flavor for this dish.
3. Can I bake the chicken on a rack?
   Yes, using a wire rack on your baking sheet will help the chicken cook evenly and crisp up on all sides.
4. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
5. Can I make this chicken in advance?
   Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

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Conclusion

Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, golden crust and tender, juicy chicken. This easy-to-make dish is coated in a delicious blend of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings, then baked to perfection for a healthier twist on fried chicken. The result is a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

I first made this dish when I wanted something lighter than fried chicken but just as delicious, and it turned out to be a hit with my family. The Parmesan and breadcrumb coating crisps up beautifully in the oven, giving you that satisfying crunch with every bite. You can pair it with roasted vegetables, a salad, or even use it as a protein for a sandwich or wrap.

Whether you’re serving it for dinner with a side of veggies or packing it for lunch the next day, this Parmesan-crusted chicken will surely become a family favorite. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making again and again!