Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the dish that turns your ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece. Imagine crispy, golden cheese hugging tender chicken, filling your kitchen with an aroma that makes you weak in the knees.
This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s woven into the fabric of family gatherings and weeknight dinners. Picture this: your loved ones gathered around the table, laughter echoing as they dive into this cheesy delight. It’s not just a meal; it’s a moment to savor, making every bite an experience worth sharing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken provides incredible flavor while being simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- The crispy texture and savory cheese create a visually appealing dish that pleases the eye as much as it does the palate.
- It’s versatile enough to pair with any side dish or salad, making it suitable for various occasions.
Ingredients for Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for maximum flavor; avoid pre-packaged stuff if you can.
- Bread Crumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to add crunch and texture.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for that extra zing; fresh garlic works too if you’re feeling fancy.
- Olive Oil: This will help crisp up the chicken and keep it moist inside.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While waiting for it to reach temperature, grab a baking dish and spray it with some nonstick cooking spray so your chicken doesn’t stick like that embarrassing dance move from last Saturday night.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season those lovely chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This isn’t just seasoning; it’s like giving your chicken a warm hug before its big moment in the oven!
Step 3: Create the Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine freshly grated Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs together with garlic powder. This crunchy coating will be the star of the show! A little olive oil goes in here too—about two tablespoons should do the trick.
Step 4: Coat Your Chicken
Dip each seasoned chicken breast into the coating mixture, pressing down slightly so it clings tightly. You want all that cheesy goodness to stick like glue!
Step 5: Bake It Up
Place your coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen will smell divine!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer those beauties onto plates and serve hot! Pair them with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal experience. Trust me; everyone will be asking for seconds!
Now that you have all the details on making this Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken, get ready to impress yourself and everyone lucky enough to share this meal with you.
You Must Know
- This amazing Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken, start by preheating your oven while you prepare the chicken. Coat it in seasoned breadcrumbs and parmesan, then bake until golden brown, all while roasting your favorite veggies for a complete meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken with different herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can swap out parmesan for mozzarella or add zest from a lemon for an extra kick. Let your creativity shine.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers of your delectable Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that crispy crust.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture and flavor in your Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
- This simple switch elevates the dish significantly.
- Remember to let the chicken rest after baking; this helps retain moisture and ensures every bite is juicy.
- Lastly, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet to achieve that golden crust on every piece!
Sometimes, I whip up this Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken when friends come over, and their eyes light up as they take that first bite—it’s pure magic every time!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
To make Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll need chicken breasts, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and olive oil. The combination of these ingredients creates a deliciously crispy crust while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor. Make sure to use quality Parmesan cheese for the best taste.
How long does it take to cook Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Cooking Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The exact time may vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts. To ensure it’s cooked perfectly, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that the chicken is safe to eat while remaining moist and flavorful.
Can I make Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken ahead of time. You can coat the chicken with the breadcrumb mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps achieve a nice crispy crust while keeping the chicken tender.
What should I serve with Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs well with various side dishes. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside pasta tossed in marinara sauce or a light lemon butter sauce for additional flavor options.
Conclusion for Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken :
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is an easy and delicious dish that brings together simple ingredients for maximum flavor. By using quality Parmesan cheese and seasonings, you can create a delightful crispy coating that complements tender chicken breasts. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is both versatile and satisfying. Enjoy your delicious creation with your favorite sides for a wholesome meal that everyone will love!
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that elevates your dining experience with its crispy, cheesy coating. Tender chicken breasts are enveloped in a savory blend of freshly grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and garlic powder, then baked to golden perfection. Ideal for weeknight meals or special gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and olive oil until well combined.
- Coat each chicken breast in the mixture, pressing down firmly to ensure the coating adheres.
- Place the coated chicken in the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Serve hot with your choice of side dishes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Keywords: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor. You can prepare the coated chicken ahead of time; refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
