Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken
A delightful dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy Parmesan and panko crust, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Tender and juicy, these breasts will form the heart of your dish.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Rich and salty, this cheese provides a flavorful crust.
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs Light and airy, these crumbs lend a magnificent crunch.
- 1 tsp garlic powder Aromatic and savory, it adds depth to the chicken.
- 1 tsp paprika Earthy and slightly spicy, it enhances the overall flavor.
- to taste tsp salt Essential for seasoning and highlighting the other flavors.
- to taste tsp pepper Essential for seasoning.
- 2 large eggs Acting as the binding agent to help the crust adhere.
- as needed spray olive oil or cooking spray Ensures that the chicken cooks to crispy perfection without sticking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Prepare the chicken by slicing the breasts horizontally for thinner cutlets or pounding them to an even thickness.
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy.
- In another bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then transfer it into the Parmesan mixture and press gently to ensure a thorough coating.
- Place the coated chicken onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s space between each piece to allow air circulation.
- Spray the tops lightly with olive oil for an extra crispy finish.
Cooking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Tips for success include using even thickness in chicken breasts, fresh ingredients, and not skipping the olive oil spray for crispiness. You can also marinate the chicken for added flavor if desired.