Parmesan Crusted Chicken Perfection

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Golden, crispy, and bursting with flavor — this Parmesan-crusted chicken is a weeknight dinner favorite!

A Crispy Chicken Classic Reinvented

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a beloved favorite that captures everything we love about comfort food: savory flavor, crispy textures, and a cheesy coating that seals in moisture while delivering crunch. It strikes a perfect balance between elegance and simplicity, making it an ideal meal for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.

This dish takes a cue from classic Italian flavors, combining Parmesan cheese with golden panko breadcrumbs for a crust that fries up beautifully in the skillet. With a minimal list of pantry-friendly ingredients and an incredibly quick prep and cook time, this is a go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down how to prepare this dish from start to finish. From ingredient measurements and preparation tips to nutrition information and serving ideas, everything you need is right here.

 Preparation Time & Calories

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Calories: ~420 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings)

 Ingredients (US Measuring Cups)

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced lengthwise to make 4 cutlets)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Chopped parsley (for garnish)

 Instructions (Stage by Stage)

1. Prepare the Chicken

  • Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to make 4 thin cutlets. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly.
  • Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any surface moisture. This helps the coating stick better.
  • Season both sides of each cutlet with salt and black pepper.

2. Set Up the Breading Stations

  • Grab three shallow dishes or bowls.
  • In the first dish, add the 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour.
  • In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
  • In the third dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Bread the Chicken

  • Lightly dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, tapping off any excess.
  • Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
  • Press each piece firmly into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Make sure both sides are coated thoroughly.

4. Cook the Chicken

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking.
  • Add the chicken cutlets to the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary.
  • Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Transfer the cooked cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

5. Serve and Garnish

  • Plate the chicken with your favorite sides.
  • Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon for a burst of brightness.
  • Serve immediately while crispy.

 Pro Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Even Thickness:

  • If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, lightly pound them between two sheets of plastic wrap with a meat mallet. This helps ensure even cooking.

Extra Crunch:

  • Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones for a crunchier texture. Panko stays crispier and browns beautifully in the skillet.

Flavor Boost:

  • Feel free to add a pinch of Italian seasoning, chili flakes, or even dried thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for added depth.

Freshly Grated Cheese:

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged for the best flavor and meltability. It makes a big difference.

No Overcrowding:

  • Don’t crowd the skillet. Cooking too many cutlets at once can drop the oil temperature, resulting in soggy crusts.

Oil Temperature:

  • Maintain a steady medium heat. If the oil is too hot, the crust may burn before the chicken is cooked through.

Rest Before Slicing:

  • Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices in.

Storage & Reheating:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.

 Serving Suggestions

  • Pasta: Serve over spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic for a full Italian-style dinner.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy texture perfectly.
  • Salad: Pair with a lemony arugula salad for a light, fresh contrast.
  • Sandwich: Slice and stuff into a crusty baguette with arugula and aioli for an irresistible chicken sandwich.
  • Grilled Veggies: Serve with charred zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus for a balanced plate.

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~420 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 21g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 420mg (varies based on seasoning)

Note: These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

 Final Thoughts

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a tried-and-true favorite that delivers on both flavor and texture. It’s satisfying, easy to prepare, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re serving it with classic sides or transforming it into a gourmet sandwich or salad topper, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Make it once, and you’ll see why it deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Bon appétit!

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