Luxurious Garlic Parmesan Chicken with a Crispy Herb Crust is a delightful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or an indulgent weeknight meal. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a crispy, cheesy herb crust, creating a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup olive oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Flatten Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Beat Eggs and Milk: In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
- Prepare Flour: Place the all-purpose flour in a third shallow dish.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dredge in Flour: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in Egg Mixture: Dip the floured chicken breasts into the egg mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Coat with Parmesan Mixture: Press the chicken breasts into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, coating them evenly on all sides.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Fry Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate and Garnish: Serve the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or pasta.
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Chicken Thickness: Ensuring the chicken breasts are an even thickness will help them cook evenly and prevent undercooked or overcooked spots.
- Frying Oil: Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a crispy crust. If the oil is not hot enough, the chicken will absorb more oil and become greasy.
Variations
- Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb Substitution: Substitute the parsley with other fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
- Baked Version: For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bread the chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before frying. This can help the coating adhere better.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy crust.
Q3: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze the breaded but uncooked chicken breasts. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frying or baking.
Q4: What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
A: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or pasta with marinara or Alfredo sauce.
Q5: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with other hard cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delicious and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy herb crust and tender, juicy chicken, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a luxurious and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Serve this delightful dish with your favorite sides for a complete and memorable dinner!
Whether you’re looking for a special dinner recipe or a comforting meal to enjoy with loved ones, this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.
