Description
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe features tender boneless skinless chicken breasts coated in a flavorful mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning, then baked to golden perfection. With a buttery garlic base enhancing the crispy crust, this dish is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that serves four.
Ingredients
Butter Mixture
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Coating
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ground pepper
Main Ingredient
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced into cutlets)
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped parsley or basil to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the butter, olive oil, and garlic powder. Microwave for 30 seconds or until the butter melts completely. Whisk the mixture with a fork until smooth.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a second shallow bowl, whisk together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and ground pepper until evenly combined.
- Butterfly Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and slice horizontally in half through the center to open like a book, creating two thinner pieces per breast.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken piece first into the butter mixture, then transfer to the breadcrumb mixture. Press the coating firmly on both sides to ensure it adheres well. Place the coated chicken pieces onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Chicken: Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping each chicken piece halfway through to ensure even browning. Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for safe consumption.
- Serve: Garnish the baked Parmesan crusted chicken with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Butterflying chicken breasts helps them cook evenly and reduces baking time.
- Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs results in a lighter, crispier crust.
- Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- For a dairy-free version, you can substitute Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative and use olive oil instead of butter.
- To make the crust extra crispy, you can broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes of baking but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
