Baked Parmesan-Crusted Chicken

Are you ready to take your weeknight dinners to the next level? This Baked Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is not only delicious but incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect dish for busy evenings or casual family gatherings. With its crispy exterior and tender, juicy chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the details of this delectable dish that combines a crunchy panko crust with the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Baked Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is a shining star in the world of easy dinners. Here’s why home cooks can’t get enough of it:

– **Crispy Texture**: The panko breadcrumbs create a light and airy crunch that elevates the entire dish.
– **Flavor-Packed**: The combination of Parmesan cheese, oregano, and spices brings a burst of flavor that makes each bite irresistible.
– **Quick and Easy**: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a gourmet meal on the table in no time.
– **Versatile**: Serve it with a fresh salad, over pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

What Goes In

To make this incredible Baked Parmesan-Crusted Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into 4 thin pieces
• About 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 scant cup panko bread crumbs
• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped for garnishing
• Lemon wedges, optional for serving

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you start cooking, make sure you have these kitchen essentials on hand:

• Baking sheet: A sturdy pan to hold the chicken while it bakes.
• Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Mixing bowls: To combine your breadcrumbs and seasonings.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: To thinly slice the chicken breasts.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.

The Method for Baked Parmesan-Crusted Chicken

Now that you have everything, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a delicious Baked Parmesan-Crusted Chicken.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, take your pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts and slice them into four thin pieces. This will ensure even cooking and a delightful crunch.

Step 2: Create the Coating Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, finely grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Drizzle about 3 tablespoons of olive oil over your chicken pieces, making sure they are well coated. Then, take each piece and press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides. This step is crucial for that crispy exterior.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the coated chicken pieces on the sheet, making sure they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown. You can use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty kick.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re looking to keep this meal low-carb or keto-friendly, consider these swaps:

• Use crushed pork rinds instead of panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating.
• Replace the Parmesan cheese with a low-carb cheese alternative.
• Serve the chicken over a bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

Chef’s Notes

For the best results, ensure that your chicken breasts are thinly sliced. If you have thicker pieces, consider pounding them down with a meat mallet to ensure they cook evenly.

• Experiment with different herbs in the breadcrumb mixture, such as thyme or basil, for varied flavors.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• You can also add garlic powder or onion powder to the breadcrumb mix for an extra layer of flavor.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Baked Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Here are some tips:

• Cook a double batch and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain the crispiness.
• You can freeze uncooked, breaded chicken pieces for up to 3 months. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Handy Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain moist, but ensure they are boneless and skinless for this recipe.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

What can I serve with Baked Parmesan-Crusted Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even pasta with marinara sauce for a heartier meal.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace the panko breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative, such as crushed gluten-free crackers or gluten-free panko.

Hungry for More?

If you’re as excited about this Baked Parmesan-Crusted Chicken as we are, get ready to indulge in more delicious recipes that promise to delight your taste buds. From savory pasta dishes to fresh salads, there’s always something new to try!

In conclusion, Baked Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines flavor, texture, and ease of preparation. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is bound to impress. Serve it up at your next dinner party or whip it up for a cozy night in—the choice is yours. Just remember to savor every delicious bite!