Description
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe features juicy boneless, skinless chicken breasts coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, fresh garlic, and Italian seasoning, then baked to crispy perfection. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that combines a crunchy crust with tender, moist chicken inside, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Crust Mixture
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Season the Chicken: Lightly season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare the Crust Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Coat the Chicken: Generously press each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, covering both sides completely and ensuring a nice even crust.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving. This ensures juicy and tender meat.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Using fresh garlic adds the best flavor, but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
- Make sure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking; pound them lightly if needed.
- Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
