Parmesan crusted chicken is one of those recipes that feels special but is surprisingly simple to make. With a golden, cheesy crust on the outside and tender, juicy chicken on the inside, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or even casual entertaining.
What makes this recipe stand out is the balance: crisp Parmesan coating, mild herbs, and perfectly cooked chicken without deep frying or complicated steps.
Why This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Works
- Crispy outside, juicy inside
- Baked, not fried
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Great for quick Italian-style dinners
This recipe is inspired by classic Italian flavors but adapted for easy home cooking.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Lightly pound chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking.
Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Parmesan Coating
In a shallow bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
3. Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then press firmly into the Parmesan mixture.
Make sure the coating sticks well on both sides.
4. Bake Until Crispy
Place coated chicken on a lightly greased baking tray.
Drizzle or brush lightly with olive oil.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 75°C / 165°F).
5. Rest & Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
This helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and crispness
- Don’t overcrowd the pan space helps the crust stay crunchy
- Flip gently to keep the coating intact
- Finish under the broiler for extra crispiness if needed
Delicious Variations
- Add lemon zest to the coating for brightness
- Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for low-carb option
- Serve with marinara for an Italian twist
- Try air-frying for even crispier results
What to Serve With Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Roasted vegetables
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Simple green salad
- Pasta or risotto
- Garlic bread or sautéed greens
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the crust crispy
- Avoid microwaving if possible
Final Thoughts
This parmesan crusted chicken recipe is simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. It’s proof that a few good ingredients and the right technique can create a meal everyone loves.
Save this recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners it’s a keeper 🍗🧀