What temperature and time should I bake Parmesan crusted chicken to make sure it's cooked properly?

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Bake the Parmesan crusted chicken breasts for 8 minutes, then flip them and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat while remaining juicy.

Can I cook Parmesan crusted chicken in an air fryer, and how long does it take?

Yes, you can cook Parmesan crusted chicken in an air fryer for a quick and crispy result. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts in the basket without overcrowding, cook for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

How do I prepare the coating mixture to get a crispy Parmesan crust on chicken?

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dip them in a mixture of olive oil and minced garlic to help the coating stick. Then, evenly press a mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning firmly onto both sides of the chicken. This method helps create a crunchy, flavorful crust when baked or pan-fried.

What are the best side dishes to serve with Parmesan crusted chicken?

Parmesan crusted chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables like zucchini, yellow squash, and cherry tomatoes, which complement the crispy texture and rich flavor. It also goes well with pasta tossed in a light tomato sauce or a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the meal. These sides add color and nutrition for a well-rounded plate.

Can I cook Parmesan crusted chicken on the stovetop instead of baking it?

Yes, cooking Parmesan crusted chicken on the stovetop is possible and yields a nicely browned crust. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding, and confirm doneness with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Ready in 30 Minutes

Name: parmesan crusted chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 to 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs), sliced into thin filets or thin cutlets (~¼-inch thickness); ½ cup olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 to 1¼ cups grated or shredded Parmesan cheese; ½ cup breadcrumbs or 1¼ cups panko bread crumbs (substitute gluten-free for allergies); 1½ teaspoons garlic powder; 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional, helps crumbs adhere and adds moisture); 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish and flavor); Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Description

🧀 Enjoy a crispy and flavorful Parmesan crusted chicken that’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.
🍋 This oven-baked recipe offers a healthier alternative to frying while delivering a golden, juicy meal in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

2 to 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs), sliced into thin filets or thin cutlets (~¼-inch thickness)

½ cup olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 to 1¼ cups grated or shredded Parmesan cheese

½ cup breadcrumbs or 1¼ cups panko bread crumbs (substitute gluten-free for allergies)

1½ teaspoons garlic powder

1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

¼ cup mayonnaise (optional, helps crumbs adhere and adds moisture)

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish and flavor)

Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and develops a golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Thinly slice the chicken breasts into cutlets about ¼-inch thick for uniform cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Mix the Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, chopped parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss breadcrumbs with olive oil for extra crispiness.

Step 4: Bind the Coating
In another bowl, whisk eggs or a vegan substitute. Optionally brush chicken pieces with mayonnaise for better adhesion and moisture.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken piece in the egg mixture, then press firmly into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Place coated pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 6: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown each piece for 2 to 3 minutes per side to create a crispy crust before baking (optional but recommended).

Step 7: Bake the Chicken
Transfer the chicken to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Flip once midway to ensure even cooking and browning. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 8: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to settle. Serve with optional lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for brightness.

Step 9: Meal Variations
Try pairing the chicken with roasted vegetables or a light pasta dish for a balanced meal. For alternative cooking, use an air fryer at 375°F for 10 minutes per side for a faster, crisp result.

Notes

🧂 Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken for a crispy crust that sticks well.
⏳ Let the chicken rest after baking to keep it juicy and tender.
🥄 Use mayonnaise or Dijon mustard to help the crumbs adhere better and add extra flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Oven-Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet
Calories: 520 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 500 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 40 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: Parmesan Crusted Chicken, Crispy Chicken, Oven-Baked Chicken, Easy Dinner