Chicken is a dinner-time staple, but sometimes, it can feel a bit too familiar. That’s where Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken comes in – it’s the perfect way to elevate your chicken game without any hassle. This recipe features juicy, tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, golden Parmesan crust that adds a deliciously savory crunch with every bite. The best part? It’s baked, so it’s much lighter than frying, but still just as satisfying.
What makes this recipe so special is the simple yet flavorful coating. The Parmesan cheese brings a sharp, nutty flavor, and when combined with breadcrumbs, it creates the perfect crispy outer layer that seals in the chicken’s juiciness. A bit of garlic powder, dried oregano, and Italian seasoning add an extra layer of depth and flavor, making each bite irresistible.
Baking the chicken gives it a light, crispy exterior while maintaining a moist, tender interior. The oven does the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on prepping your side dishes or enjoying some downtime before dinner. And with minimal ingredients, this recipe is one of those go-to meals that you’ll want to make over and over again.
It’s also a great option for busy weeknights or even for meal prep. You can easily make extra and have leftovers for lunch the next day. Plus, the Parmesan crusted chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes to a simple green salad or even pasta.
Despite its crispy exterior, this dish is surprisingly healthy. Since it’s baked, not fried, you’ll enjoy all the crunchy goodness without the extra grease. And the Parmesan provides plenty of protein and calcium, making this meal not just delicious but nutritious as well.
This Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is also a hit with kids and picky eaters. The crunchy, cheesy coating is sure to please even the most discerning palates, making it a family-friendly dinner option that everyone will love.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Want to make it gluten-free? Simply substitute the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even almond flour. Want to spice it up a bit? Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the breading for a little heat. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature version.
The key to achieving that perfect crispy crust is to make sure the chicken is fully coated and that the oven is preheated to the right temperature. A quick spray of cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil ensures that the crust gets nice and crispy, while the chicken stays moist and tender on the inside.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family dinner or prepping for a dinner party, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s easy, tasty, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s so simple to make that it won’t take up much of your time.
So next time you’re in the mood for something crispy and satisfying, give this Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken a try. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and texture, and it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Servings: 4 servings
Time: Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
-
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon dried oregano
-
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
-
1/2 teaspoon salt
-
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
-
2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions:
-
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
-
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
-
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the breading stick better.
-
Coat each chicken breast in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to make sure the coating sticks. Ensure that the entire chicken breast is covered.
-
Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top or lightly spray with cooking spray to help the crust crisp up during baking.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
-
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips:
-
To make the chicken extra crispy, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
-
For a lighter version, substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or a mix of almond meal for a gluten-free option.
-
Ensure your chicken is patted dry before coating to prevent sogginess and help the breading stick.
-
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the breading for customized flavors. A touch of smoked paprika can add a nice smoky flavor.
-
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken delivers on both flavor and texture. The crispy, cheesy crust pairs perfectly with the juicy, tender chicken, making every bite a delightful experience. It’s quick, easy, and adaptable, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or special dinners.
Satisfy your cravings for something crispy and flavorful with this Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken. With a golden, cheesy crust and juicy chicken inside, this simple, healthy recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
