Chicken recipes are versatile, and this Parmesan Crusted Chicken is no exception. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe combines the savory flavors of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil with the succulent texture of perfectly cooked chicken breasts.
Ingredients
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs (or more as needed)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or more if needed)
- 1 cup olive oil (for frying)
- ½ cup prepared tomato sauce
- ¼ cup fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ cup grated provolone cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
- In a separate shallow dish, combine the panko bread crumbs and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place the flour in another shallow dish.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the chicken breasts into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Press the chicken breasts into the panko mixture, ensuring an even coating. Set aside.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- Heat 1 cup of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Place the fried chicken breasts on a baking sheet.
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of prepared tomato sauce over each chicken breast.
- Divide the fresh mozzarella cubes evenly among the chicken breasts, placing them on top of the tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the mozzarella.
- Top each chicken breast with grated provolone cheese and the remaining ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top of the chicken breasts.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 7: Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.
Tips and Variations
Tips
- Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Fontina or Asiago, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Variations
- Marinara Style: Use marinara sauce instead of plain tomato sauce for a richer flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Add Italian seasoning or dried oregano to the panko mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with eggplant slices for a delicious vegetarian option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought breaded chicken cutlets for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought breaded chicken cutlets to save time. Simply follow the baking instructions and add the toppings as directed.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the frying step, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, assemble and bake as directed.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free panko bread crumbs and flour to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Q: What sides go well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
A: Serve with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a delightful dish that combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with the savory flavors of Parmesan cheese, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Easy to make and sure to impress, this recipe is perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Enjoy this delicious chicken dish with your favorite sides and savor the flavors of this classic Italian-inspired meal. Happy cooking!