Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delicious and crispy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful Parmesan crust and pan-fried to golden perfection. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- 900 grams (approx. 2 pounds) chicken breasts, skin and bones removed
- 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 sticks salted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 3 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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: Prepare the Coating
- Mix Egg and Water: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and water until well combined.
- Prepare Parmesan Coating: In another shallow dish, mix the shredded Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dip in Egg: Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Coat with Parmesan: Press each chicken breast into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides evenly. Press the cheese mixture firmly onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 stick of the salted butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is hot.
- Pan-Fry Chicken: Add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Add More Butter: As the chicken cooks, add the remaining 1/2 stick of butter to the skillet to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Serve
- Rest Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute.
- Serve: Serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
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.
- Butter: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor. You can also substitute with unsalted butter and adjust the seasoning.
Variations
- Herb Crusted Chicken: Add fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the Parmesan mixture for additional flavor.
- Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the Parmesan mixture for a spicy kick.
- Baked Version: For a lighter version, bake the coated 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 prepare the chicken breasts and coat them ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover Parmesan Crusted 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 cooked chicken breasts. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q4: What can I serve with 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.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delicious and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy Parmesan 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 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.
