This Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a crispy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for an easy dinner. Coated with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, it offers a golden, crunchy crust while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside. Serve it with a side of vegetables or salad for a balanced meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the breading mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the egg wash: In another shallow bowl, beat the egg with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This helps the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken and gives it extra moisture.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then press the chicken into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly so the coating adheres well to both sides of the chicken.
- Bake the chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on the outside and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you prefer a darker crust, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Rest and serve: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
This Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a side of pasta, or a fresh Caesar salad. You can also serve it with a lemon wedge for an extra burst of freshness.