If you’re craving crispy, golden-brown chicken without the hassle of deep frying, this Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is exactly what you need. This dish delivers a crunchy, flavorful coating while keeping the inside tender and juicy—all without the mess and extra calories of deep frying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: No deep frying means fewer calories and less grease.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Crispy & Flavorful: The Parmesan crust adds a delicious crunch with a cheesy, garlicky kick.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides, from salads to pasta.
Ingredients
For this crispy, golden delight, you’ll need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- ½ cup regular breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for crispiness)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. This allows for even cooking and ensures the perfect crispy texture. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness (about ½ inch).
2. Set Up the Breading Station
You’ll need three shallow bowls for dredging:
- Flour Mixture: In the first bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Egg Wash: In the second bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
- Parmesan Coating: In the third bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken
- Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Finally, press the chicken into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, making sure it adheres well on all sides.
4. Cook the Chicken
You can cook this crispy Parmesan chicken in two ways:
Pan-Frying Method (Recommended for Maximum Crispiness)
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place the coated chicken in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Oven-Baked Method (For a Lighter Version)
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lightly grease the parchment paper and place the chicken on top.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the chicken for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Air Fryer Method (Quick & Easy!)
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the coated chicken in a single layer and air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
This crispy Parmesan crusted chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Fresh Salad: A light arugula or Caesar salad complements the crispy texture.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini.
- Pasta: A side of creamy Alfredo or garlic butter spaghetti is always a winner.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make this dish even more comforting.
- Dipping Sauces: Try serving it with honey mustard, marinara sauce, or garlic aioli.
Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-packaged Parmesan lacks the same rich flavor and texture.
- Don’t Skip the Panko: It adds an extra layer of crunch that regular breadcrumbs can’t achieve.
- Make Sure the Oil is Hot Enough: If pan-frying, ensure the oil is properly heated before adding the chicken to prevent sogginess.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: This allows the chicken to crisp up evenly.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken sit for a couple of minutes before cutting to keep the juices intact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this chicken ahead of time? A: Yes! You can coat the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 6 hours before cooking. Leftovers can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great, but cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) or air fryer for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a game-changer for those who love crispy, golden-brown chicken without deep frying. It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor—perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a healthier take on a classic favorite!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy Parmesan crusted chicken? Let us know in the comments!