Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast Recipe

One evening, I was looking for something that felt a little special but didn’t require a lot of work. My family loves crispy, flavorful dishes, so I decided to experiment with ingredients I already had in the pantry. A mix of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and some basic seasonings came together to create a baked Parmesan-crusted chicken breast that was a hit from the very first bite.

It’s become one of our go-to meals for busy weeknights and casual dinners with friends. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor without being complicated.

Servings	Total
4	35mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I didn’t learn this recipe from a book or a fancy chef. It was one of those meals born out of necessity. Over the years, I’ve tweaked it to make it even easier and tastier. Now, it’s the dish my family requests when they want something comforting yet fuss-free.

Why Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast

This dish is perfect for so many reasons. It’s flavorful, thanks to the Parmesan and seasoning, and the crispy texture makes it feel like a treat. Baking instead of frying keeps it healthier and less messy, and it’s versatile enough to serve with almost any side. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe always hits the mark.

What Is Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast Made Of?

This recipe uses simple ingredients:

• Chicken breasts
• Parmesan cheese
• Breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch or regular breadcrumbs)
• Olive oil or butter
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

What to Have With Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast

This baked Parmesan-crusted chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes balance the crispiness of the chicken.
• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots make a healthy, colorful addition.
• Pasta: A light spaghetti aglio e olio or marinara pasta complements the flavors beautifully.
• Salad: A fresh Caesar or mixed greens salad rounds out the meal.

Is Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast Healthy?

Yes, it’s a healthier option compared to fried chicken. Baking reduces the fat content, and the recipe uses lean chicken breasts for protein. To make it even healthier, you can use whole wheat breadcrumbs and less cheese.

Kitchen Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Grater (for Parmesan cheese)

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 large egg (optional, for extra binding)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix the Coating: In a bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry. If using the egg, beat it in a small bowl.
4. Coat the Chicken:
   • Dip each chicken breast in olive oil (or egg, if using).
   • Press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring all sides are evenly coated.
5. Bake the Chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• For extra crunch, spray the chicken with a little cooking spray before baking.
• To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before coating.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well but may require a few extra minutes in the oven.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs, and everything else remains the same.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

Baked Parmesan-crusted chicken breast is an easy, flavorful recipe that works for any occasion. It’s simple enough for weeknights but special enough for entertaining. With its crispy coating and juicy chicken, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home too. Give it a try and enjoy!

MORE RECIPES