Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Welcome to SousVideRecipe! I’m Jasmine, a home cook who fell in love with sous vide the moment I realized it could turn everyday meals into restaurant-quality dishes with perfect consistency. My goal is to make sous vide cooking approachable and fun for real home kitchens — no complicated steps, just flavorful, reliable recipes anyone can master. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, I’m here to inspire you to enjoy cooking and create unforgettable meals one perfectly cooked bite at a time.

Preparing Parmesan crusted chicken has become a beloved ritual in my home. Each time, the house fills with the enticing aroma of baked chicken mingling with the savory notes of garlic and Italian seasoning. It brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter and good food flowed freely.

What makes this dish so incredible? It’s the satisfying crunch of the golden Parmesan breadcrumbs that perfectly encase the tender chicken. Each bite is a delightful contrast, and it’s hard not to fall in love with it. Plus, this recipe provides a perfect opportunity to introduce your loved ones to restaurant-quality flavors right from your kitchen.

In this guide, you will learn to master Parmesan crusted chicken at home. You will feel confident in preparing this dish, regardless of your cooking experience. Let’s dive deep into the fundamentals of this mouthwatering meal!

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Fundamentals

Creating a stunning Parmesan crusted chicken involves several elements working in harmony. The chicken breasts serve as a canvas for the flavorful coating, while the combination of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and spices contribute to a symphony of taste and texture. This versatile dish works well for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Understanding the role of each ingredient helps you tailor the dish to your preferences. For instance, you might wish to use different seasoning blends or types of cheese for a unique twist. This adaptability allows you to experiment while ensuring the dish remains an effortless signature of your cooking style.

Preparation/setup

Preparation is key to achieving great results with Parmesan crusted chicken. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment not only prevents sticking but also facilitates cleanup—a win-win scenario for any home cook.

Taking the time to pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels is essential. This simple step ensures the coating adheres well during the baking process. After drying, season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper, which enhances flavor while balancing the richness of the Parmesan.

Ingredients

To make Parmesan crusted chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking)

These ingredients come together to create a delightful crust, bringing both flavor and crunch to each bite of chicken.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess.
4. Dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off.
5. Press each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring full coverage.
6. Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over them.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
8. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Flavorful Parmesan Chicken

Technique

Utilizing the right technique can make all the difference when preparing Parmesan crusted chicken. Begin your process with the assembly line approach for dredging. Place your flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb mixture in separate shallow dishes for easy access. This allows for a seamless transition from one step to the next.

Coating the chicken evenly is crucial to achieving that satisfying crunch. After dredging in flour, ensure the chicken is lightly coated, shaking off any excess. Then submerge the chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it gets completely coated before pressing into the breadcrumb blend.

Tips/tricks

One secret to achieving a truly perfect Parmesan crust lies in the quality of breadcrumbs. Opt for panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. If you couldn’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, but won’t provide the same texture.

Another tip is to let the coated chicken rest for about 10 minutes before baking. This rest period allows the breadcrumbs to adhere better and creates a more cohesive crust once cooked. Lastly, don’t skip the olive oil drizzle; it helps to crisp up the coating beautifully while baking.

Perfecting Parmesan Chicken

Perfecting results

To ensure your Parmesan crusted chicken turns out perfectly crispy and succulent, monitoring the cooking time is essential. Every oven is different, so it’s wise to check the chicken a few minutes before the recommended baking time is up. You want that golden-brown crust without overcooking the chicken.

Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve the ideal doneness, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This extra step guarantees that your chicken remains moist and tender while allowing the crust to develop that enticing color.

Troubleshooting/variations

Even the best cooks can experience hurdles in the kitchen. If your chicken crust seems to fall off during baking, consider pressing the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken after coating. You can also try chilling the coated chicken for about 30 minutes before baking to help the coating adhere better.

For unique variations, feel free to spice things up. Adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture can introduce a delightful kick. You could also incorporate different types of cheese, like mozzarella for a melty effect, or try fresh herbs for an aromatic twist.

Serving Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Serving/presentation

Presentation can elevate your dining experience significantly. Once you have baked your Parmesan crusted chicken, allow it to rest for a few minutes on a cutting board. This rest time enables juices to redistribute, ensuring a succulent bite every time.

When slicing, aim for even portions to create a beautiful display on serving plates. You can serve the chicken alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal. Roasted vegetables or a light salad make for fresh accompaniments.

Pairings/storage

While traditionally enjoyed as a main dish, Parmesan crusted chicken pairs beautifully with various sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes or a simple pasta with garlic and olive oil. Additionally, your favorite steamed vegetables or a garden salad can round out the meal effortlessly.

For any leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated in the oven to crisp up the crust again, making it a pleasant leftover experience. Enjoy this delightful chicken as a versatile option that shines both fresh and as a reheated meal.

Conclusion

Perfecting Parmesan crusted chicken transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience. The technique, flavors, and presentation come together to create a dish that is sure to impress. With a few simple steps, anyone can discover the joy of making this restaurant-quality meal at home. Enjoy savoring each bite as you share this flavorful dish with family and friends.

Print