Description
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe features tender boneless skinless chicken breasts coated with a crispy mixture of Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, then pan-fried to golden perfection. It’s a delicious and easy-to-make main course that pairs wonderfully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Breading
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Cooking
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Finishing
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to infuse flavor.
- Set up Breading Stations: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. This setup will help create a crispy coating.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally press into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture ensuring it adheres well to all sides.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until the outside is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through internally.
- Finish and Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and drizzle with lemon juice if desired for a bright finishing touch before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, bake the breaded chicken in a preheated 400°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until crispy and cooked through instead of pan-frying.
- This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures even cooking and tenderness.
