Herbed Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a bit of posh nosh without the faff? Our Parmesan crusted chicken recipe is just the ticket. This isn't your average boring chicken. It is packed with flavour and ridiculously easy.
Brief Overview
This Italian chicken recipes inspired dish is a surefire crowd pleaser. It is ready in under an hour! From prep to plate, it yields four satisfying servings.
This recipe brings a touch of sun-soaked Tuscan countryside to your table.
Main Benefits
This Crispy baked chicken breast is lighter than frying. It is a great source of lean protein, making it a guilt free pleasure.
Perfect for a weeknight chicken dinners or a lazy Sunday lunch, it’s a guaranteed hit.
Let's Get Cracking!
Right then, let's dive into this absolute gem of a recipe. Honestly, I've made this herb crusted chicken recipe more times than I can count.
It's my go-to when I need something quick, delicious, and vaguely healthy.
The Secret Weapon: That Crispy Crust
The real star of this show is the crust. It's a mix of Panko chicken breadcrumbs and Parmesan. Don't skimp on the Parmesan.
It is the key to that lovely salty, cheesy flavour! Adding the herbs makes it sing.
What You'll Need
Here's what you'll need to create this masterpiece. Don't worry. You probably have most of it already:
- Four boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- One large egg
- Two tablespoons of milk
- One tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- Half a teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- One cup of Panko chicken breadcrumbs
- Half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Two tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
- One tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme
- Two tablespoons of olive oil
Time to Prep
Prepping is key! I remember once trying to rush this step and ended up with unevenly cooked chicken. Disaster! Trust me, take the time.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!
Alright, mate, let's get down to brass tacks. We're making Herbed Parmesan Crusted Chicken . It's easier than you think. Trust me, if I can do it, anyone can! The right ingredients, simple equipment, and a little bit of love.
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
Here's what you'll need. Remember, good ingredients equal good food, innit?
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz/170g each). Go for plump, juicy looking ones.
- Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk ( 30 ml )
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard ( 15 ml )
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder ( 2.5 ml )
- 1/4 teaspoon salt ( 1.25 ml )
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper ( 1.25 ml )
- Crust:
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs ( 100g ). These give the best crunch.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese ( 50g ), finely grated. Get the good stuff; it makes a difference.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley ( 30 ml )
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme ( 15 ml )
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder ( 1.25 ml )
- 1/4 teaspoon salt ( 1.25 ml )
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper ( 1.25 ml )
- 2 tablespoons olive oil ( 30 ml )
For the chicken, quality matters. Fresh is best, and if you can, get free range. Trust me, you will have a wonderful Crispy baked chicken breast .
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Bombs!
This is where you can get creative. This Parmesan crusted chicken relies on a few key combos:
- The Italian Trio : Parmesan, parsley, and thyme. It's a classic for a reason.
- Garlic Power: Garlic powder in both the wash and the crust adds a lovely aromatic punch.
- Quick Sub: Don't have fresh herbs? A teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning works in a pinch.
Honestly, good seasoning can turn even basic ingredients into a taste sensation. The herb crusted chicken recipe tastes and feels wonderful!
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple!
You don't need a fancy kitchen for this. Just the basics:
- Shallow dishes or bowls (3)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Meat mallet or rolling pin (optional)
- Oven
No meat mallet? No problem! Use a rolling pin, or even the bottom of a heavy pan. We're not judging here.
There you have it! Ready to get cooking this easy chicken dinner ? Next up, the instructions!
Herbed Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Weeknight Winner!
Fancy something a bit special but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen? This Parmesan crusted chicken is the answer! Honestly, it's easier than ordering a takeaway.
It is inspired by classic Italian flavors. This Crispy baked chicken breast recipe will knock your socks off!
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
Okay, first things first: mise en place. Sounds fancy, right? It just means getting everything ready. Chop your 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme .
Get out your Panko breadcrumbs , Parmesan cheese , and chicken. Whisk together 1 large egg , 2 tablespoons of milk , and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard .
Trust me, this saves so much time.
Safety first! Make sure your chicken is fully defrosted before you start. Raw chicken is no laughing matter.
Crusting Time: step-by-step Simplicity
Right, let's get down to it.
- Pound those 4 chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch . This helps them cook evenly.
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg wash , making sure it's completely covered.
- Now, dredge the chicken in the Panko breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly so the crumbs stick.
- Place the Crusted Chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper .
- Bake at 400° F ( 200° C) for 25- 30 minutes , until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps it juicy!
Visual cues are your friend. You're aiming for a lovely golden brown crust. No pink chicken, please!
Pro Tips for Perfection
Want to take your chicken with breadcrumb coating to the next level? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat.
Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam instead of browning. You can make the breadcrumb mixture ahead of time.
Just store it in an airtight container. This works wonders for weeknight chicken dinners .
So, there you have it: Herb crusted chicken recipe perfection! Give it a go, and let me know what you think! Maybe even try it with a squeeze of lemon juice you won't regret it.
Enjoy!
Recipe Notes for Herbed Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Right, so you're about to make this Parmesan crusted chicken . Honestly, it's easier than making a cuppa! Here's a few extra things to keep in mind.
Serving Up Some Deliciousness
Okay, so you've got your crispy baked chicken breast ready. But how do you make it look posh? Plating is key! I reckon a bed of wilted spinach would look amazing.
Think restaurant style, you know? A sprig of parsley never hurt anyone. For sides, roasted veggies are always a winner.
Asparagus or broccoli work a treat. Fancy a drink? A nice crisp white wine, maybe a Pinot Grigio, would be just the ticket!
Storing for Later (If There's Any Left!)
So, you've made your easy chicken dinner ideas masterpiece. But there's leftovers, shock! Pop the chicken cutlets in an airtight container and into the fridge.
They'll be grand for 3-4 days. If you're thinking longer, freezing is an option. Wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating? Oven's best! Keeps the crust crispy. Microwave is okay in a pinch, but the crust might go a bit soggy.
Just being honest.
Swapping Things About
Fancy a bit of a change? No problem! For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free Panko chicken breadcrumbs. Easy peasy! Trying to be healthier? Swap the Parmesan for a lighter cheese or use less olive oil.
In the summer, basil would be gorgeous in the crust. Winter? Maybe some rosemary! This herb crusted chicken recipe is really flexible, so play around with it!
The Good Stuff (Nutrition)
Let's be real, this oven baked chicken recipes isn't exactly a salad. But it's not terrible for you either! Chicken is packed with protein, which is good for building muscles.
The Parmesan adds calcium, which is ace for bones. Just don't go overboard on the oil and cheese, yeah? Enjoy everything in moderation!
So there you have it! All you need to know to make this amazing crusted chicken recipe a success! Seriously, go for it! You'll feel like you're on the Great British Bake Off , but with chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
My crust isn't sticking! What am I doing wrong with my crusted chicken?
Oh, bother! A crumbly crust is a common kitchen conundrum. Make sure you're pressing the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken after it's been dipped in the egg wash. Panko breadcrumbs, in particular, need a bit of encouragement.
Also, ensure your chicken breasts are relatively dry before dipping them; excess moisture can prevent the crust from adhering properly.
Can I prepare the Herbed Parmesan Crusted Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can be a savvy cook and prep ahead! You can coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly. Add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time, and make sure the chicken is cooked through!
How do I store leftover crusted chicken? Will it still be crispy?
Store any leftover crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and attempt to revive some crispiness, use the oven or air fryer. Microwaving will make it soft, though! Reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Be warned, it won't be quite as delightful as when it was freshly baked, but still tasty!
Is there a healthier way to make this crusted chicken recipe? I'm watching my waistline, you know.
Good on you for being health conscious! You can definitely lighten things up. Try using whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of Panko. You can also use an olive oil spray to lightly coat the chicken before baking, instead of drizzling olive oil.
Consider serving it with a large salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I use different herbs or cheese in this crusted chicken? I'm feeling adventurous!
Why, yes! Get your creative juices flowing. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil. As for cheese, try using Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just be sure the cheese is finely grated for best results, and adjust seasonings to taste.
I don't have an oven! Can I cook this crusted chicken in a pan?
Indeed, pan-frying is a viable option! Heat a tablespoon or two of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, and let the excess of oil after cooking with paper towel!
Herbed Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 1g |
