Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cups all purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 0.67 cups seasoned Italian bread crumbs (I use Progresso); 0.33 cups freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, parsley, chives or rosemary); 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (3-4 pieces, pounded ¼" thick); salt (for seasoning); freshly ground black pepper (for seasoning); 0.25 cups olive oil (for cooking); lemon wedges (for serving)

Introduction to Parmesan Crusted Chicken

If you're a young professional looking to impress at dinner parties or simply treat yourself during a busy weeknight, Parmesan Crusted Chicken is an ideal choice. This dish not only brings a delightful crunch and savory flavor to your table, but it's also incredibly easy to prepare in just 30 minutes. Imagine coming home after a long day and whipping up something that feels gourmet yet is mostly straightforward in its execution!

Why choose this recipe? For starters, it’s packed with protein, making it a filling option that won't leave you rummaging through the fridge an hour later. Plus, the combination of Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and crispy bread crumbs elevates the humble chicken breast into a dish that feels special.

Another reason young professionals enjoy this recipe is its versatility. Pair it with a bright salad, warm vegetables, or even a simple pasta for a balanced meal. Not only will you satisfy your taste buds, but you'll also impress your friends or family with minimal effort. For more cooking tips and ideas, you might want to check out websites like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit for inspiration. Get ready to savor this delicious dish!

Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Essential Ingredients for the Breading

Creating that perfectly crispy and flavorful breading is a breeze! You’ll need:

½ cup all-purpose flour: This will create a light base coating.
2 eggs: Beaten to help the breading adhere beautifully.
⅔ cup seasoned Italian bread crumbs: This adds texture and a burst of flavor; I recommend using Progresso for quality.
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese: Nothing beats the rich, nutty flavor of freshly grated cheese.
¼ teaspoon salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning; feel free to adjust to your taste.
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs: Fresh thyme, parsley, chives, or rosemary add a delightful aroma.

Chicken Selection Tips for Optimal Flavor

For your Parmesan crusted chicken, opt for 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts weighing about 1½ pounds altogether. To ensure even cooking and maximum tenderness, pound the chicken to about ¼-inch thickness. Thinner cutlets not only cook faster but also soak up the breading flavor beautifully. If the breasts are large, consider cutting them in half for more manageable portions.

Looking for more tips on chicken selection? Check out resources from The USDA for safe cooking practices and recommendations!

Step-by-step Preparation of Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Making Parmesan Crusted Chicken is both simple and rewarding. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests. Let’s walk through the preparation step by step.

Set up your breading station

Creating a well-organized breading station is crucial for a smooth cooking process. You’ll want three shallow bowls:

In the first bowl, place ½ cup of all-purpose flour.
Beat 2 eggs in the second bowl until well combined.
In the third bowl, mix ⅔ cup of seasoned Italian bread crumbs, ⅓ cup of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, ¼ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.

Having everything organized minimizes mess and confusion while ensuring you don’t skip any steps.

Prepare the chicken breasts

Season 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds), ensuring they are pounded to ¼-inch thick for even cooking. A meat mallet works wonders here! Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. This seasoning not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat.

Breading the chicken

Now, for the fun part! Take one piece of chicken, dredge it in the flour first. Make sure to shake off the excess flour. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip back into the bowl. Finally, cover the chicken in the bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. Repeat this process for all your chicken pieces. Setting them aside on a plate ensures they are all ready for cooking.

Cooking the chicken to perfection

Heat ¼ cup of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown, and then flip to continue cooking until they reach a delicious golden hue on the other side.

Tips for troubleshooting common cooking issues

If your chicken isn’t browning properly, ensure your oil is hot enough—test with a breadcrumb; if it sizzles, you're good to go. For chicken that feels too dry, remember to monitor cooking times closely, as overcooking can lead to dryness. If needed, consider adding a splash of chicken broth towards the end for added moisture.

Feel free to serve your Parmesan Crusted Chicken with lemon wedges for that refreshing zest! And if you prepare ahead, just follow the Make-Ahead Instructions mentioned in the main recipe, making weeknight dinners even simpler.

By following these steps, you'll have a delightful meal that impresses both your taste buds and your guests! For more tips about chicken preparation and cooking techniques, check out reputable cooking blogs like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit. Happy cooking!

Variations on Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Lemon Herb Parmesan Crusted Chicken

For a bright and zesty twist, try making lemon herb Parmesan crusted chicken. Incorporate zest from fresh lemons and a mix of your favorite herbs—like basil, oregano, or dill—into the breadcrumb mixture. This variation adds a refreshing lift to the dish, perfect for warm evenings or when you're craving a touch of sunshine on your plate. Simply serve it with a side of steamed asparagus or a light salad for a complete meal.

Spicy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

If you're a fan of heat, spicy Parmesan crusted chicken is your go-to! Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb blend for an exciting kick. Pair this with your favorite spicy dipping sauce or a tangy sriracha mayo for a delightful contrast against the creamy cheese crust. This variation promises to thrill your taste buds and could even become your new favorite!

Looking for more chicken inspiration? Check out The Chicken Cookbook for additional recipes.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Recommended Oil for Frying

For your Parmesan crusted chicken, a high-quality oil is essential for achieving that perfect golden crust. We recommend using olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits, though vegetable oil can also work well if you prefer a milder taste. Just be sure to heat the oil to medium before adding the chicken to avoid soggy breading.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Parmesan crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F—microwaving can result in sogginess. Follow these tips for ideal storage:

For up to 3 days: Keep in the fridge.
To freeze: Wrap each piece tightly, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Enjoy the deliciousness long after dinner!

Serving Suggestions for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

When it comes to elevating your Parmesan crusted chicken, the right accompaniments can truly make a meal.

Best side dishes to complement the chicken

Consider pairing your dish with:

Roasted asparagus: Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt for a crisp side.
Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy and comforting, these add a rich texture that balances the crunch of the chicken.
Mixed green salad: Toss together baby greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Garnishes that elevate presentation

To make your Parmesan crusted chicken even more appealing:

Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds color and freshness.
Lemon wedges: Not just for squeezing, they create a pop of brightness on the plate.
Balsamic drizzle: A light drizzle enhances both flavor and visual appeal.

A well-plated meal is always a pleasure! For more inspiration, check out this article on food presentation.

Time Breakdown for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Preparation Time
Getting your ingredients ready takes about 10 minutes. You'll want to set up your breading stations and prepare the chicken properly for the perfect crust.

Cooking Time
Once you're breaded, the cooking process will take around 15 minutes. This includes frying the chicken until it’s beautifully golden brown and fully cooked.

Total Time
In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious plate of Parmesan Crusted Chicken ready to serve. Perfect for those busy weeknights or unexpected guests, it's a meal you can whip up with ease!

Nutritional Facts for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Calories per serving

Each serving of Parmesan Crusted Chicken contains approximately 562 calories. This makes it a satisfying choice for dinner while still being mindful of your overall caloric intake.

Protein and fat content

This dish is packed with 48 grams of protein, ideal for those looking to build muscle or simply enjoy a protein-rich meal. The 28 grams of fat, including 8 grams of saturated fat, provides a hearty flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

Sodium levels

With 1218 mg of sodium per serving, it's essential to be aware of your overall dietary salt intake, especially if you're watching your sodium levels. A squeeze of lemon can balance the sodium while adding a refreshing kick to your meal!

For more detailed nutritional data, consider looking at resources from USDA or NutritionData. Happy cooking!

FAQs about Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Can I use a different cheese for the breading?

Absolutely! While Parmigiano-Reggiano adds a distinct flavor to your Parmesan crusted chicken, you can experiment with other cheeses. Consider using aged provolone or pecorino for a similar texture with a twist. Just remember, the flavor will vary, so choose a cheese that complements your other ingredients!

How can I make it gluten-free?

To make your Parmesan crusted chicken gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free bread crumbs. Brands like Gluten-Free Pantry or Ian’s offer excellent options that will give you that crispy finish without the gluten.

What kitchen tools do I need for this recipe?

You’ll need a few basic tools to make your Parmesan crusted chicken perfectly:

Three shallow bowls for breading
A meat mallet or rolling pin for pounding chicken
A large sauté pan for frying
A spatula for flipping

These simple tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable! For more tips, check out resources like Serious Eats for kitchen tool recommendations.

Conclusion on Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Final thoughts on enjoying homemade food over fast food

Preparing Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home is a delightful experience that beats fast food any day! Not only can you savor fresh ingredients and adjust flavors to suit your taste, but you'll also benefit from knowing exactly what goes into your meal. So, gather your ingredients, enjoy the cooking, and relish every bite!

For more tips on healthy cooking and meal prep, be sure to check out this guide on balanced meals.