Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

The Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a dish that never fails to impress. One chilly evening, after a long day, I found myself craving something warm and satisfying. I rummaged through my fridge and found some boneless chicken breasts, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Instantly, I knew I was about to whip up one of my favorite comfort foods. The aroma of the chicken frying in the pan filled my kitchen, bringing back memories of family dinners where laughter and joy filled the air. Each bite of this crispy delight takes me back to those cherished moments, making it not just a meal but a celebration of family and flavor.

Recipe Ingredients for Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

When it comes to creating the Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken, the ingredients play a crucial role in delivering that delightful taste and texture. Each component has its purpose, working together harmoniously to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The key players here are the chicken, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, which all come together to form a mouthwatering experience.

• 1 ½ lb. boneless skinless chicken breast: The star of the dish, providing a juicy and tender base.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour, for dredging: Helps the coating adhere and adds a slight crispiness.
• 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as a binding agent to hold the breadcrumbs onto the chicken.
• ⅔ cup breadcrumbs (homemade or store-bought): Provides the crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the chicken.
• ½ cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese: Adds rich, savory flavor to the crunchy coating.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of the chicken.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Necessary for achieving that golden, crispy texture.

Step by Step Guide for Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process. Making the Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is straightforward, and I promise you’ll be thrilled with the outcome. Follow these steps closely for perfect results!

1. Begin by cutting the chicken breast into strips, about ¼ inch thick. This ensures even cooking and makes them perfect for frying.
2. Once cut, sprinkle the strips with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is essential for bringing out the chicken’s flavor.
3. In a large plate, mix together the breadcrumbs and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. This mixture will create a deliciously crunchy coating.
4. Next, dredge each strip of chicken in flour, shaking off any excess. This layer helps the egg stick.
5. Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs until fully coated. Make sure every piece is well-covered.
6. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure it adheres well. This is where the crunch begins!
7. In a skillet, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
8. Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken strips in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
9. When done, remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
10. For an extra touch, garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful crunch of the Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

Ways to Customize

If you’re looking to add your own twist to the Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken, here are some ideas to consider. These tips will help you personalize the dish and make it truly your own!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked, breaded chicken portions for later use. Just thaw before frying.
• Pairing: Serve with a creamy pasta salad or a light green salad for a balanced meal.
• Spicing It Up: Add your favorite herbs and spices to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor, like garlic powder or Italian seasoning.
• Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese in the breadcrumb mixture, like mozzarella or cheddar, for a unique twist.

What to Serve With Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

When it comes to serving your Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken, the options are as vast as your imagination. Here are some fantastic ideas to accompany this dish:

• Fresh Salad: Pair it with a crisp garden salad topped with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Pasta Dishes: Serve alongside creamy pasta dishes, like alfredo or a simple garlic and olive oil spaghetti.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli can balance the hearty flavors of the chicken.
• Grain Options: Consider serving with a side of quinoa or rice for a wholesome addition to the meal.
• Occasional Serving: This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners but can also shine at special gatherings and celebrations.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve with a light tomato salad, while in winter, opt for hearty root vegetables.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy. With its crunchy exterior and juicy interior, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll find it hard to resist coming back for seconds!

Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

The ultimate comfort food that combines juicy chicken with a crispy, cheesy coating. This Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Make it tonight and satisfy your cravings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ lb. boneless skinless chicken breast
• ½ cup all-purpose flour for dredging
• 2 eggs beaten
• ⅔ cup breadcrumbs homemade or store-bought
• ½ cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• salt
• pepper
• vegetable oil for frying

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Skillet
• Grater

Method

 

1. Cut the chicken breast into strips, about ¼ thick.
2. Sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. On a large plate, mix together the breadcrumbs and the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
4. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour and shake off the excess.
5. Dip them into the egg mixture and, finally, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
6. Fry the chicken on medium heat, in a small amount of vegetable oil for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through.
7. Garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley, if desired, and enjoy!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked, breaded chicken portions for later use. Just thaw before frying.
• Pairing: Serve with a creamy pasta salad or a light green salad for a balanced meal.
• Spicing It Up: Add your favorite herbs and spices to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor, like garlic powder or Italian seasoning.
• Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese in the breadcrumb mixture, like mozzarella or cheddar, for a unique twist.

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Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!