Introduction to Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a truly remarkable dish, a testament to how simple ingredients, when treated with care and attention, can transform into something extraordinary. It’s a classic for a reason – the combination of crispy, golden-brown breading, generously studded with sharp Parmesan cheese, alongside juicy, tender chicken breasts, is a flavor explosion that tantalizes the palate. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience, a comfort food staple that brings a touch of sophistication to any meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can serve it alongside a simple green salad for a light lunch, pair it with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a comforting dinner, or even incorporate it into a more elaborate buffet spread. What truly elevates this recipe is the texture – that satisfying crunch of the panko breadcrumbs, followed by the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of the chicken. The judicious use of butter and mayonnaise ensures the breading adheres perfectly, while the Italian seasoning adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that complements the Parmesan beautifully. It’s a dish that’s guaranteed to impress, but more importantly, it’s one that you’ll genuinely enjoy making and sharing with loved ones. Chicken Breast, Panko Breadcrumbs, and Parmesan Cheese are truly wonderful ingredients for making this dish. You can create a more complete meal with Mashed Potatoes or Green Beans. This recipe is also great for beginners and can be easily adapted to suit different tastes. Italian Seasoning is a must have ingredient to achieve a truly delightful flavor. Mastering this simple recipe will unlock a world of delicious possibilities. Chicken Recipes are a great choice to start with. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize this classic. Food Blogs can provide inspiration.
Ingredients Needed for the Recipe
To create this restaurant-quality Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll need a collection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll require to embark on this delicious culinary journey. The key to a truly exceptional result lies in using components that deliver both flavor and texture – it’s the combination that makes this dish so special.
Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need to gather before you begin:
- Chicken Breasts: Four large, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the foundation of our recipe. Aim for breasts that are approximately 6-8 ounces each for a consistent cooking experience. Choosing breasts with good marbling – small flecks of fat within the muscle – will enhance the tenderness and flavor of the final product. You can source these from most grocery stores, typically found in the meat department. Chicken Breasts – Chicken Breasts – Chicken Breasts
- Mayonnaise: One cup (240ml) of mayonnaise is critical for creating a luscious coating for the chicken. Opt for a full-fat mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture. Brands like Hellmann’s or Duke’s are excellent choices. You can find these at most supermarkets, often near the condiments. Mayonnaise
- Butter: A quarter cup (60g) of salted, softened butter is essential for adding richness and flavor. Using salted butter is recommended to balance the savory notes of the Parmesan. Softening it beforehand ensures it blends seamlessly into the mayonnaise. Butter
- Garlic: Two cloves of garlic, grated finely, bring a pungent and aromatic kick to the dish. Freshly grated garlic is infinitely superior to pre-minced versions. You can use a microplane or a fine grater to achieve a consistent texture. Garlic
- Panko Breadcrumbs: One cup (150g) of panko breadcrumbs provides the crispy outer layer. Panko’s larger, lighter texture creates a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. These can be found in the baking aisle of most grocery stores. Panko Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan Cheese: One cup (100g) of grated Parmesan cheese is the star of the show, delivering intense umami and savory flavor. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results – pre-grated cheese often contains cellulose, which can affect the texture. Parmigiano-Reggiano is the gold standard, but a good quality pre-grated Parmesan will also work. Parmesan Cheese
- Italian Seasoning: One tablespoon (10g) of Italian seasoning is the final touch, bringing a blend of herbs and spices—typically oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary—to complement the Parmesan and garlic. Italian Seasoning
By sourcing these ingredients carefully, you’ll lay a foundation for a truly exceptional Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Don’t be afraid to experiment with slightly different brands to find your personal favorite – the key is high quality and fresh flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Let’s get cooking! This recipe is surprisingly simple, delivering restaurant-quality crispy chicken in under an hour. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to make it perfectly every time:
1. Preheat and Prep: First, preheat your oven to 400° Fahrenheit (200° Celsius). This ensures that the breadcrumb coating gets beautifully browned and crispy. While the oven heats, lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray. This prevents the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Using a casserole dish guarantees a nice, even bake and a convenient way to serve.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish (a pie plate or large bowl works perfectly), combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Whisk together thoroughly. The key to a fantastic coating is ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed – you want every piece of chicken to be coated in that flavorful Parmesan blend. Using panko breadcrumbs is crucial for achieving the signature crispy texture you’re after; regular breadcrumbs won’t provide the same level of crunch.
3. Combine the Chicken with the Mayonnaise-Butter Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, softened butter, and grated garlic. The garlic adds a subtle but delightful flavor that complements the Parmesan perfectly. Once combined, use a spoon or pastry brush to thoroughly coat each chicken breast with this delicious mixture. Make sure every surface is covered – this is where the moisture comes from, leading to juicy chicken and a flavorful crust.
4. Coat the Chicken with the Panko Mixture: Now, take each coated chicken breast and dredge it completely in the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere firmly. Work systematically to avoid uneven coatings. You’ll notice the mayonnaise helps the panko stick, resulting in a remarkably robust and flavorful crust.
5. Arrange in the Casserole Dish: Place the coated chicken breasts into the greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, spacing them evenly. Avoid overcrowding the dish; this allows for proper air circulation, leading to a more uniform bake and a consistently crispy exterior.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, then flip the chicken breasts over and continue baking for another 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165° Fahrenheit (74° Celsius) using a meat thermometer. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your chicken breasts, so it’s always best to check with a thermometer for accurate doneness. A meat thermometer is your best friend when cooking chicken to ensure it’s safe and perfectly cooked!
7. Rest Before Serving: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a significantly juicier and more tender chicken breast. Trust me, this resting step is essential for the best results!
Recipe Notes & Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve the absolute best Parmesan Crusted Chicken – a truly restaurant-quality dish – there are a few key techniques and considerations that will elevate the recipe from good to exceptional. Firstly, ensuring your butter is properly softened is crucial. Don’t just melt it; allow it to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or even better, an hour. This will ensure it incorporates seamlessly into the mayonnaise, creating a rich, emulsified base for the coating. Next, don’t be shy with the breadcrumbs! A generous coating is what gives the chicken that satisfying crunch. However, avoid using too wet breadcrumbs – if they’re soaking with mayonnaise, the coating won’t adhere properly. To remedy this, gently pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels before coating. This prevents a soggy crust. For a more intensely flavored crust, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the breadcrumb mixture. Alternatively, you can finely grate some fresh Parmesan cheese directly into the breadcrumb mix – about 1/4 cup extra – it will melt into the coating and deliver a more pronounced Parmesan flavor. Also, while baking, it’s essential to avoid overcrowding the casserole dish. Give the chicken breasts enough space so that heat can circulate evenly, resulting in consistent browning and cooking. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you can pound them gently with a meat mallet to an even thickness—this will help them cook uniformly. For a beautifully browned crust, you can broil the chicken for the last minute or two of cooking – but watch it carefully to prevent burning! A wire rack placed over the casserole dish during baking promotes even heat circulation and ensures a crispy bottom. Another useful tip is to let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after baking, loosely tented with foil. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat incredibly tender and juicy. Finally, if you’re reheating leftovers, consider reheating them in the oven or an air fryer – again, using a wire rack to maintain crispness. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can often result in a soggy crust. For a slightly sharper flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice over the finished chicken. Don’t overbake! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165° Fahrenheit. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability – experiment with herbs, spices, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to customize the flavor to your liking. Don’t be afraid to adjust the coating thickness based on your preferred level of crunch. Ultimately, the goal is a perfectly golden-brown, incredibly tender, and flavorful Parmesan Crusted Chicken that will impress everyone you serve!
Nutritional Information and Disclaimer
This section provides an estimated nutritional breakdown for a single serving of Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Please note that these figures are approximations and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For precise nutritional data, we strongly recommend using a dedicated nutrition tracking app or consulting with a registered dietitian.
Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving – 4 chicken breasts):
- Calories: Approximately 433 kcal
- Total Fat: Approximately 26g – Including Saturated Fat: Approximately 14g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 140mg
- Sodium: Approximately 450mg (can vary significantly based on Parmesan cheese brand)
- Total Carbohydrate: Approximately 9g – Including Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2g – Including Sugars: Approximately 0g
- Protein: Approximately 40g
Detailed Breakdown (approximate):
- Fat: Primarily from the butter and Parmesan cheese, contributing to the dish’s rich flavor and texture. The use of butter adds significant saturated fat content. Consider alternatives like olive oil or reduced-fat butter to adjust the fat content.
- Carbohydrates: Predominantly from the panko breadcrumbs. Adjusting the amount of breadcrumbs will directly affect the carbohydrate levels.
- Protein: Chicken breast is naturally high in protein, making this a good source of lean protein.
Disclaimer:
Cheerful Cook team members are not trained nutritionists or medical professionals. The nutritional information and values presented here are estimates based on average ingredient data and commonly used measuring methods. These figures are intended as a general guide only and should not be considered definitive or used for making dietary decisions. Individual nutritional needs and tolerances vary greatly depending on factors like age, activity level, pre-existing health conditions, and overall dietary habits. We recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice. Furthermore, the consumption of this dish may pose potential risks for individuals with allergies to any of the ingredients, including chicken, dairy (Parmesan cheese), or gluten (panko breadcrumbs).
Important Note: The sodium content is highly dependent on the brand of Parmesan cheese used. Some brands may contain added salt, which will significantly increase the sodium levels. Always check the nutrition label of the Parmesan cheese for accurate sodium information. Furthermore, while this recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, those following strict ketogenic diets should be mindful of carbohydrate content in all ingredients and track their macros accordingly.
Disclaimer Regarding Medical Advice: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. Consumption of this dish should be undertaken with awareness of individual dietary requirements and potential health implications. Individuals with diabetes or other metabolic disorders should carefully monitor their blood glucose levels after consuming this dish.
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Want to become a part of the Cheerful Cook community and help us improve our recipes? Saving this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a fantastic first step, and we’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! This recipe is all about delivering restaurant-quality flavor and texture – crispy, juicy chicken bathed in a rich, savory Parmesan crust. But we want to know your version of perfection!
Perhaps you tweaked the seasoning blend, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or maybe you substituted the panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes for an even lighter, crispier result. Did you happen to use a different type of butter, like brown butter, for a deeper, nuttier flavor? We’re genuinely curious about any modifications you made – it’s all part of the cooking process, and we value your insights.
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