If you are craving a dinner that feels both indulgent and comforting, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is about to become your new favorite! Crispy, golden, and bursting with the rich, nutty flavors of fresh shredded Parmesan cheese, every bite delivers a perfect balance of savory and satisfying texture. This recipe is straightforward enough for a busy weeknight but special enough to impress family or friends. Once you master this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe, it will undoubtedly hold a permanent place on your meal rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples that come together beautifully to create a dish with fantastic flavor, inviting aroma, and a satisfying crunch. Each component plays an essential role, from tenderizing the chicken to forming that irresistible golden crust.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect lean protein base that becomes juicy under the Parmesan coat.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the glue to help the Parmesan cheese stick to the chicken evenly.
- 1 tablespoon water: Lightens the egg wash for a smooth, easy coating.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Adds a lovely aromatic depth that enhances the cheesy crust.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and helps season the chicken deeply.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle kick and rounds out the taste profile.
- 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese (not grated): The star ingredient that creates that irresistibly crunchy, golden crust.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Contributes rich flavor and helps brown the crust perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the pan hot and prevents sticking while ensuring even frying.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): Adds a bright, fresh color contrast and a subtle herbal note.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting each chicken breast in half horizontally, creating thinner pieces. Then, gently pound the chicken to about half an inch thick using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy on the inside while crisping on the outside.
Step 2: Make the Egg Wash
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and water until completely blended. Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the mixture, whisking again to distribute the seasoning evenly. This seasoned egg wash not only flavors the chicken but also helps the Parmesan cheese adhere perfectly.
Step 3: Coat Chicken in Parmesan
Pour the shredded Parmesan cheese into a separate shallow bowl. Dip each pounded chicken piece first into the egg wash, shaking off any excess, then dredge it in the Parmesan cheese. Press gently to make sure the cheese clings well to every inch. Carefully flip the chicken and repeat on the other side. Give each piece a light shake to discard any loose cheese before frying.
Step 4: Pan-Fry to Perfection
Heat the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the Parmesan-coated chicken carefully, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook without moving the chicken for about three minutes or until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown. Lightly press each piece with a spatula to encourage even crisping, then carefully flip and cook the other side until equally golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken has a beautiful crust and is cooked through, transfer it to a serving plate. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Your Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is ready to wow any dinner guest or become your go-to weeknight hero.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Although the chicken is flavorful on its own, a sprinkle of vibrant fresh parsley brightens the dish visually and adds a hint of earthiness that complements the rich Parmesan crust. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving also makes a fantastic accent.
Side Dishes
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides that balance the richness. Try a crisp green salad, steamed asparagus, or roasted Brussels sprouts for some lovely color and crunch. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter pasta also make excellent, comforting companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, arrange the chicken over a bed of lightly dressed arugula or nestle it beside colorful roasted vegetables. You might also slice the chicken and serve it atop a Caesar salad for a restaurant-worthy meal. Presentation really elevates the experience and makes sharing this dish even more fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and remains flavorful, though the crust will soften slightly over time.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Parmesan crusted chicken by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best quality, use within 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, position the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps to regain some crispness on the crust compared to microwaving, which can make it soggy. Keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use grated Parmesan cheese instead of shredded?
While grated Parmesan is finer and powders easily, shredded Parmesan creates a thicker, crunchier crust that is key to the texture of this dish. For best results, use shredded Parmesan.
Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?
Pounding helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender. If your chicken pieces are already thin, you can skip this step, but pounding is highly recommended for consistent results.
Can I bake this instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Baking at 400°F for about 20 minutes will cook the chicken through, but you may lose some of the crispy crust texture pan-frying provides. A quick broil at the end can help crisp it up.
What can I use instead of butter for frying?
While butter adds great flavor and browns beautifully, you can substitute with all olive oil or a neutral oil like avocado oil if you prefer. Just be mindful of the smoke point when frying.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your Parmesan cheese does not contain any additives with gluten. Always check labels to be safe!
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm, cheesy hug on a plate. Its irresistible crunch and rich flavor make it easy to fall in love with every time. I hope you give it a try soon and find it as satisfying and delicious as I do. Happy cooking and enjoy every crispy bite!
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Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a quick and delicious stovetop recipe featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful garlic egg wash and crispy shredded Parmesan cheese, pan-fried to golden perfection and garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Coating & Cooking
- 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese (not grated)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Cut each chicken breast in half to create thinner pieces. Pound each piece to about ½-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Prepare Egg Wash: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and water until well combined. Stir in minced garlic, salt, and black pepper thoroughly.
- Coat in Parmesan: Place shredded Parmesan cheese in another shallow bowl. Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture to coat thoroughly, allowing excess to drip off. Then dredge in the shredded Parmesan cheese, pressing gently to adhere the cheese evenly. Repeat on both sides and shake off any excess cheese.
- Pan-Fry: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces. Cook without moving for about 3 minutes until edges turn golden brown. Lightly press the chicken with a spatula for better contact, then carefully flip and cook the other side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use shredded Parmesan cheese rather than grated for better crust texture.
- Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and tender texture.
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice golden crust without burning the cheese.
- Fresh parsley adds a brightness and color contrast but is optional.
- Serve with a side of vegetables or salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
