5-Minute Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Parmesan Crusted Chicken/magicinkitchen.com
Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is an easy weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect with pasta, salad, or veggies!
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for a simple yet elegant chicken dish that delivers both crunch and flavor, Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the recipe you need. With a golden, crispy coating of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, this dish transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a restaurant-quality meal. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but also impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.
Unlike deep-fried cutlets, this version is pan-fried with minimal oil, ensuring a crisp crust without being heavy. The Parmesan adds a nutty, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh herbs, pasta, or roasted vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a dish that always satisfies.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch thick) for quick and even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper. - Set Up Dredging Station:
- Place flour in one shallow bowl.
- Beat eggs in a second bowl.
- In a third bowl, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip in beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so the coating sticks.
- Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). - Serve:
Transfer to a plate, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over spaghetti with marinara sauce for an Italian-inspired dinner, pair it with mashed potatoes and roasted veggies for comfort food, or slice it over a crisp Caesar salad for a lighter option.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for better flavor and binding.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if needed for maximum crispiness.
- For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes instead of frying.
Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Crust
To achieve the crispiest Parmesan crust, make sure your chicken is patted dry before coating. This ensures the cheese adheres properly and browns evenly. You can also mix in a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or Italian herbs to the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture for an extra layer of flavor. For best results, cook the chicken on a wire rack in the oven so air circulates around it, keeping the crust crunchy on all sides.
Serving Suggestions for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, try pairing it with sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles. A drizzle of lemon juice or a side of marinara sauce can elevate the flavors even more, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless chicken thighs work great — they’ll be juicier but may take slightly longer to cook.
2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect recipe to add to your dinner rotation. Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with almost any side dish. With minimal ingredients and less than 30 minutes of cooking time, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Next time you’re craving something crispy and satisfying, skip the takeout — this Parmesan Crusted Chicken will quickly become your go-to favorite!
