Easy Parmesan Chicken Recipe: Juicy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

Introduction

Looking for a dish that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family? This Easy Parmesan Chicken is the answer! With its juicy chicken coated in a crispy, cheesy crust, it brings together flavors that are simply irresistible. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Visual Appeal

The golden-brown crust of the Parmesan chicken is visually stunning, making it a showstopper on any dinner table. Served alongside vibrant vegetables or a fresh salad, it creates a colorful and inviting plate.

Perfect Pairing

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a crisp Caesar salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a glass of white wine, which complements the cheesy flavors beautifully.

Occasions to Serve

Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a cozy gathering with friends, or a festive holiday meal, this Parmesan chicken will be a hit. Its delicious flavors and appealing presentation make it suitable for any occasion.

Recipe Overview

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fiber: 1 g

Cook and Prep Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients List

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Serving

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Create the coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. In another bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs together.
4. Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat it in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each chicken breast for added flavor and crispiness.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan Chicken

• For extra crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Don’t skip the oil: Drizzling olive oil helps to achieve a crispy texture.
• Rest the chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest before serving helps to keep it juicy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Coating falling off: Ensure the chicken is well-coated in egg before dipping into the breadcrumb mixture.
• Chicken not cooked through: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Not crispy enough: Increase the baking time slightly or broil for the last 2-3 minutes for more browning.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs work well and will be juicier.
2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
3. What can I serve with Parmesan chicken?
   It pairs well with pasta, vegetables, or a fresh salad.
4. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
   You can coat the chicken and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking.
5. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
   You can substitute with grated Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese.

Conclusion

This Easy Parmesan Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of juicy chicken and a crispy, cheesy crust that your family will love. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. So gather your ingredients and enjoy a homemade dinner that’s sure to impress!