Name: Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast; ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging); 2 large eggs (beaten); 1 cup breadcrumbs ((homemade or store-bought)); ½ cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese; Salt and pepper (to taste); Vegetable oil (for frying)

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Who doesn’t love a juicy, crispy chicken dish that feels like a treat but is incredibly easy to make? This Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is just that—simple, delicious, and perfect for any night of the week. With a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re serving it with a side of pasta, a fresh salad, or simply on its own, this chicken will quickly become a favorite in your household.

What Makes This Recipe Special

The magic of this Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken lies in its crispy, cheesy crust. The combination of breadcrumbs and finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese creates a flavorful coating that locks in moisture while delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the chicken’s natural flavors to shine through, while the crispy exterior adds a delightful texture. Best of all, this recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or an impressive dinner for guests.

What You’ll Gather

To recreate this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
½ cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (homemade or store-bought)
½ cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetable oil, for frying

These ingredients are simple and easy to find, making this recipe accessible for everyone.

Equipment Breakdown

Before we get started on this Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken, let’s gather the tools you’ll need:

Large skillet: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
Three shallow bowls: For the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb mixture.
Meat mallet or rolling pin: To pound the chicken to an even thickness.
Cooking tongs: For flipping and transferring the chicken.
Paper towels: For draining excess oil after frying.

Having everything prepped and ready to go will help streamline the cooking process and make it even more enjoyable.

From Start to Finish: Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about ½ inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.

Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station

In three separate shallow bowls, set up your dredging station:

In the first bowl, add the flour and season it with salt and pepper.
In the second bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese together.

This setup will allow you to coat the chicken efficiently.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and dip it into the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Repeat this process for each piece of chicken.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over medium-high heat to cover the bottom of the pan. You want the oil hot enough that it sizzles when you add the chicken, but not so hot that it smokes.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Use tongs to flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow it to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs wonderfully with a squeeze of lemon juice or your favorite dipping sauce.

Substitutions by Diet

Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to try something different, here are some substitutions you can consider:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Egg-Free: Replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit until thickened).
Low-Carb: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.

These substitutions can help you tailor the recipe to your dietary needs while still enjoying the delicious flavors.

Troubles You Can Avoid

To ensure your Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken turns out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Not pounding the chicken: This ensures even cooking and tenderness.
Skipping the seasoning: Properly seasoning each layer (flour, egg, and breadcrumbs) enhances the flavor.
Overcrowding the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to maintain the oil temperature and achieve a crispy crust.
Not letting it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after frying helps keep it juicy.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can avoid common mistakes and enjoy a flawless dish.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers (although that’s unlikely!), here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

Storing: Place leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap the cooked chicken in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to freeze. It can be stored for 2-3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side or in the oven at 375°F until warmed through for best results.

This way, you can enjoy the deliciousness even after the initial meal.

Your Top Questions

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the chicken. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and crispy.

What can I serve with Parmesan crusted chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as garlic mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it over pasta or with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Can I use other cheeses for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Parmigiano-Reggiano adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a different taste.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you’re looking to add some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or using a spicy seasoning blend on the chicken before coating.

Keep Cooking

If you enjoyed this Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe, you might also love trying:

These links will take you to more delicious recipes that will keep your kitchen adventures exciting!

That’s a Wrap

In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. This Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that delights the senses. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness, and don’t forget to share this recipe with those who love a good chicken dish! Happy cooking!

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