Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dinner idea, look no further than this Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This dish is a perfect blend of crispy, cheesy goodness that will have your family asking for seconds. With just a few ingredients and a bit of frying magic, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and scrumptious. Whether served with a side of veggies or nestled in a salad, this chicken is sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken lies in its simplicity. By using everyday ingredients, this recipe transforms boneless skinless chicken breasts into a delightful centerpiece. The crispy crust is achieved by a combination of breadcrumbs and finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, which adds a depth of flavor you won’t want to miss. The dredging process helps to lock in moisture, ensuring tender chicken every time. Plus, frying in vegetable oil gives it that irresistible crunch.

What Goes Into Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To make this delicious chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast – Tender and versatile, this is the star of the dish.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Used for dredging, it creates a base for the crust.
• 2 eggs, beaten – This helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – You can use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
• ½ cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese – Adds a rich, cheesy flavor.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning.
• Vegetable oil for frying – Provides a crispy texture.

Appliances & Accessories

Having the right tools can make a big difference in your cooking experience. Here are some essentials you’ll need:

• Cutting board – For prepping your chicken.
• Meat mallet – Optional, for pounding the chicken to an even thickness.
• Three shallow dishes – For dredging station (flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs).
• Frying pan – Ideally non-stick, for easy frying.
• Slotted spatula – To turn the chicken and drain excess oil.
• Paper towels – For draining the cooked chicken.

Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken, Made Easy

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts into thinner cutlets if desired. This will help them cook more evenly and quickly. Pat them dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station

In three shallow dishes, set up your dredging station. Place the flour in the first dish, the beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese in the third.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Coat each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides. Repeat for all pieces.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large frying pan, heat about a half-inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a piece of breadcrumb into it; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the dredged chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

Substitutions by Category

If you need to make some adjustments, here are some substitutions you can consider:

• Chicken: You can substitute with turkey cutlets or even eggplant slices for a vegetarian option.
• Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free version.
• Cheese: Any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano can work in place of Parmigiano-Reggiano.
• Oil: Olive oil can be used for frying, though it has a lower smoke point than vegetable oil.

Little Things that Matter

Here are a few tips to elevate your Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

• For extra flavor, add dried herbs like oregano or basil to your breadcrumb mixture.
• Let the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better.
• Use a thermometer to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
• If you have leftover dredging ingredients, they can be stored in airtight containers for your next cooking session.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you want to prepare Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken in advance, here are some freezer-friendly tips:

• After dredging the chicken, arrange the pieces on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• To cook from frozen, you can bake the chicken straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Cooked chicken can also be frozen. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or plastic wrap.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my chicken isn’t crispy?

If your chicken isn’t crispy, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. Also, be sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken for better adhesion.

Why does the coating fall off while frying?

This can happen if the chicken is too wet when it goes into the breadcrumbs. Make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly and let it rest after dredging.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you love Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you might enjoy these other one-pan recipes:

• One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• One-Pan Chicken and Vegetable Skillet
• One-Pan Chickpeas and Cauliflower

Next Steps

Now that you have all the details on how to make Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Gather your ingredients, set up your space, and enjoy the process. This dish is not just about the delicious outcome but also about the joy of cooking at home.

The next time you’re in need of a quick and tasty dinner option, remember this Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe. It’s bound to become a favorite in your household, and who knows, it might just earn a permanent spot in your weekly meal rotation! Enjoy!