If you’re craving a crispy, restaurant-quality chicken dinner that’s simple enough to make at home, look no further than this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe. With its golden-brown crust, tender and juicy inside, and the irresistible flavor of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, this dish delivers a gourmet experience straight from your kitchen.
The best part? It comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
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Ingredients (and Why They Work)
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Pounded thin for even cooking and maximum tenderness.
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – The star of the dish, creating a nutty, salty, crispy crust.
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style) – Adds crunch and helps the Parmesan adhere to the chicken.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the coating with aromatic depth.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil) – Enhances the flavor with subtle herb notes.
½ teaspoon paprika – Adds color and a gentle smokiness.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the crust.
2 large eggs, beaten – Work as the “glue” to hold the crust on.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Promotes even browning when frying.
2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and helps achieve that golden crust.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the chicken: Place the chicken breasts between sheets of parchment or plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even ½-inch thickness. This ensures they cook quickly and stay juicy.
2. Season well: Lightly season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper.
3. Prepare the coating: In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
4. Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then press firmly into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides completely.
5. Heat the pan: In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat until hot and shimmering.
6. Cook to golden perfection: Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcrowding the pan—work in batches if needed.
7. Rest and serve: Transfer to a plate and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
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Why Everyone Loves This Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Crispy outside, juicy inside – The perfect texture contrast.
Quick & easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
Crowd-pleasing flavor – A combination of Parmesan, garlic, and herbs that never disappoints.
Versatile – Works for both casual dinners and elegant meals.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for the crispiest, most flavorful crust.
Don’t skip pounding the chicken—it ensures even cooking and prevents dry spots.
Mix Parmesan with breadcrumbs—this helps the crust stick and avoids burning the cheese.
Wipe the pan between batches if necessary to prevent burned bits from spoiling the flavor.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with:
Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery pasta for comfort food vibes.
A crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
Lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish.
For an Italian-inspired dinner, serve it over angel hair pasta with marinara sauce or alongside garlic bread.
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Conclusion
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a crispy, flavorful, and restaurant-worthy dish. With its golden crust, juicy interior, and irresistible flavor, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Make it tonight, and discover
why this easy yet elegant chicken dish continues to outrank others—it’s simple, delicious, and unforgettable.
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