Baked Parmesan Chicken\magicinkitchen.com

Baked Parmesan Chicken

Crispy and golden Baked Parmesan Chicken with a cheesy crust. Quick, easy, and perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals everyone will love.

Introduction

Looking for a chicken dinner that’s crispy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible? Baked Parmesan Chicken is the perfect solution. Coated in a flavorful blend of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, this chicken bakes to golden perfection, offering a deliciously crunchy crust while remaining tender and juicy inside.

This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, salads, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 egg, beaten
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the coating: In a shallow bowl, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip the chicken: Coat each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then dredge in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Bake the chicken: Place coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush with olive oil to help crisp the coating. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the coating is golden brown.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy hot with your favorite sides.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over pasta with marinara sauce for a classic Italian-style dinner.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a light, healthy meal.
• Add a side of garlic bread to complete the meal.
• For a low-carb option, serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Storing and Reheating Baked Parmesan Chicken

Leftover Baked Parmesan Chicken can be stored 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 10–15 minutes to maintain its crispy crust. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crunchy coating.

Customization and Flavor Enhancements

This recipe is highly versatile. Add smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor. You can also top the chicken with sliced mozzarella or marinara sauce for a cheesy twist. Serve over pasta, zucchini noodles, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Tips for Perfect Baked Parmesan Chicken

• Even thickness: Pound chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.
• Extra crispiness: Use panko breadcrumbs and drizzle olive oil on top before baking.
• Flavor variations: Add smoked paprika or cayenne for a mild kick.
• Meal prep: Make extra chicken breasts and store in the fridge for 3 days of easy meals.

Variations to Try

• Stuffed Parmesan Chicken: Fill with mozzarella and spinach before baking.
• Herb-Crusted Twist: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Mix in red pepper flakes for heat.
• Family-Friendly Version: Top with marinara sauce and melted cheese for a kid-approved meal.

FAQ

Q: Can I freeze Baked Parmesan Chicken?
A: Yes! Freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay juicy, but adjust cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.

Q: How do I make the coating extra crispy?
A: Use panko breadcrumbs, drizzle olive oil before baking, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.

Conclusion & Call-to-Action

Baked Parmesan Chicken is a simple yet irresistible dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With a crunchy, cheesy crust and tender, juicy meat, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Try this recipe tonight and impress your family with a homemade, restaurant-quality meal. Don’t forget to leave a comment sharing your results and explore more delicious recipes at Magic in Kitchen.