Crusted Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the crispiness of a cheesy, buttery topping with the tender juiciness of perfectly baked chicken breasts. This recipe is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special family meal. The combination of provolone cheese, Parmesan, and ranch seasoning creates a rich and flavorful crust that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts, pounded evenly
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
Marinade:
- ½ cup olive oil
- ½ cup prepared ranch dressing
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Ranch Spread:
- ¼ cup ranch dressing
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan Crumb Topping:
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Ranch Spread:
- In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup ranch dressing with ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
- Prepare the Parmesan Crumb Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, shredded Parmesan cheese, garlic salt, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined and crumbly.
- Assemble the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Spread a layer of the ranch spread mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan crumb topping evenly over the ranch spread.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The crust should be golden brown and crispy.
- If the topping is not as golden as you like, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or additional grated Parmesan if desired.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Crusted Parmesan Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- It pairs wonderfully with a side of pasta or rice if you’re looking for a heartier option.
Tips for Success
- Pounding the Chicken: Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly and helps the crust adhere better.
- Marinating Time: For best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse the meat.
- Crispy Topping: If you prefer an extra crispy topping, you can lightly spray the crumb topping with cooking spray before baking.
- Checking Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked without being overdone.
Variations
- Cheese Options: You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or Swiss cheese if you prefer.
- Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the Parmesan crumb topping for additional flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko bread crumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.
Crusted Parmesan Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines a flavorful marinade with a crispy, cheesy topping. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and appealing presentation. Enjoy this easy-to-make meal that delivers both comfort and gourmet taste!
