How do you make Parmesan Crusted Chicken crispy?

Using a light coating of melted butter or olive oil helps the crust crisp nicely. Pressing the chicken into panko breadcrumbs combined with grated Parmesan ensures a crunchy texture. Baking at a higher temperature or using an air fryer also improves crispiness. Ensuring even thickness helps cook the chicken uniformly without soggy spots.

What sides go well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad complement this dish well. For low-carb options, steamed asparagus or cauliflower rice work beautifully. Check out our Roasted Garlic Cheddar Cauliflower Soup for a delicious pairing.

Can you make this recipe with chicken thighs?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but you will need to increase the cooking time slightly since thighs take longer to reach a safe internal temperature. Make sure to pound the thighs evenly for uniform cooking and check temperature to reach at least 165°F.

Is it better to use butter or eggs for coating the chicken?

Butter offers richer flavor and helps the crust brown nicely, while eggs serve as a traditional binder for the breadcrumbs. Some recipes use mayo to add moisture and help with adhesion. The choice largely depends on personal preference and dietary considerations.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe: Crispy Oven-Baked Delight

Name: Oven-Baked Parmesan Chicken with Crispy Crust: Easy Recipe for a Delicious Meal
Prep time: PT-485887H31M37S
Cook time: PT-485887H21M37S
Total time: PT-485887H21M37S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of fat; 1¼ cups panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs); ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 tablespoons minced parsley, plus extra for garnish; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon pepper; ¼ cup melted butter; 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Description

🍗 Enjoy a delightful Oven-Baked Parmesan Chicken with a crispy crust and tender, juicy interior.
🕒 Quick to prepare and bake, this dish is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or impressing guests at special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of fat
1¼ cups panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons minced parsley, plus extra for garnish
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
¼ cup melted butter
2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (or 425 degrees for a quicker cook time).
2. In a shallow dish, combine panko, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Optionally, toss the mixture with a little olive oil for a crisper crust.
3. In a separate dish, mix melted butter, lemon juice, and garlic.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the butter mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated.
5. Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, covering both sides thoroughly.
6. Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a 9×13 baking dish. Alternatively, use a sheet pan lined with parchment paper or a wire rack for even browning.
7. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes (or 20 to 25 minutes at the higher temperature), flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
8. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges, if desired, then serve.

Notes

🧀 Use grated Parmesan for better adhesion; shredded cheese does not stick as well.
🍋 Mayonnaise can replace butter to add moisture and flavor to the dish.
🔥 Chicken can be baked or air-fried for a less greasy option; note that air frying results in a less crispy texture than pan-frying in oil.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 20-40 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Calories: 450
Sugar: 1 gram
Sodium: 750 mg
Fat: 24 grams
Saturated Fat: 10 grams
Unsaturated Fat: 14 grams
Trans Fat: 0 grams
Carbohydrates: 12 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Protein: 40 grams
Cholesterol: 138 mg