There’s something irresistible about a dish that’s both crispy and cheesy. Parmesan-crusted chicken is one of those classic comfort meals that feels fancy enough for a dinner party but is simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. This recipe captures the magic of tender, juicy chicken paired with a golden, crispy crust made with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.

I first came across a version of this recipe at a friend’s house, where it was served with a side of buttery mashed potatoes and crisp green beans. It was one of those meals where you immediately ask for the recipe—and then tweak it to make it your own. Over time, I’ve experimented with different crust combinations and cooking methods, but this version has become my tried-and-true favorite. It’s quick, easy, and delivers restaurant-quality results without the need for fancy ingredients or complicated techniques.

Let’s dive into what makes this recipe special and how you can recreate it in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Easy to Make: Perfect for weeknights when you’re short on time but still want a home-cooked meal.
• Family-Friendly: The crispy, cheesy coating will be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Pair it with a salad for a lighter meal or with pasta for a heartier option.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry or fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3–4 tablespoons olive oil, for frying

How to Make Parmesan-Crusted Chicken

This Parmesan-crusted chicken recipe is all about layering flavors and textures. Let’s take it step by step to make sure you get the perfect crispy crust every time.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Start by slicing your chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thinner pieces. This not only helps the chicken cook evenly but also ensures every bite gets a good balance of juicy meat and crispy coating. If the pieces are uneven, give them a light pound with a meat mallet to even them out.
2. Set Up a Breading Station:
   In three separate shallow bowls, prepare your breading ingredients:
   • Bowl 1: Add the flour.
   • Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
   • Bowl 3: Combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Bread the Chicken:
   Working one piece at a time, dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
4. Heat the Oil:
   Heat 3–4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough that a breadcrumb dropped in sizzles, but not so hot that it burns.
5. Cook the Chicken:
   Carefully place the breaded chicken in the skillet, cooking for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
6. Rest and Serve:
   Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the coating stay crisp and gives the juices inside the chicken a moment to settle.

Helpful Tips:

• Choose the Right Pan: A nonstick or cast-iron skillet works best to prevent the crust from sticking.
• Don’t Skip the Panko: Panko breadcrumbs give the chicken its signature crunch. Regular breadcrumbs can work in a pinch but won’t be as crispy.
• Make Ahead: Bread the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to an hour before cooking. This allows the coating to adhere better.
• Reheat Without Losing Crunch: Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Pan-Fried
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free (with substitutions)

Notes:

• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
• You can customize the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste—try adding Italian seasoning or a pinch of cayenne for a kick.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approx. 375
• Protein: 29g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 22g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I bake this instead of frying?

Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F, place the breaded chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, and lightly spray with cooking oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispy texture.

Storage Instructions:

• In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the Freezer: Bread the chicken and freeze it uncooked on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Related Recipes:

If you loved this Parmesan-crusted chicken, try these other cheesy favorites:

• Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Conclusion:

Parmesan-crusted chicken is a simple yet satisfying dish that deserves a spot in your dinner rotation. It’s versatile, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, salad, or veggies, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, grab your skillet and get ready to create a meal your family will ask for again and again!

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