The Best Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This recipe comes from my love a panko crumbs and a BJ’s Parmesan crusted chicken! Panko crumbs are mostly used on fish recipes, but I love to use them on chicken! This chicken is mouthwatering and will leave everyone begging for seconds! There’s a couple of tips below to help you get this chicken extra crispy and ready to serve so don’t skip that! I recommend this for weeknight and weekend meals! Add some pasta or veggie to the side for a full meal!

Why Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a Crowd Pleaser

You can serve it as a main course, or slice it up and use it in sandwiches, wraps, or salads. Or you can use it on top of waffles! My chicken and waffles recipe uses a similar chicken technique. The possibilities are endless!

The key to making parmesan crusted chicken that stands out from the rest lies in the quality of ingredients and the cooking techniques used. Choosing the right chicken (boneless) , breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese will elevate the dish.. And with a few tips and tricks I have, you’ll be able to get that perfect balance of crispy and tender that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Ingredients

5-6 split boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Kosher salt and ground black pepper
3 cups all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
3-4 cups panko crumbs
2 cups of grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup olive oil, and as needed
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) salted butter, and as needed

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken

1. Preheat the oven to 200°F
2. Prepare the chicken by splitting each piece of chicken to make to thinner pieces. Then lay a piece of chicken in a sturdy ziplock bag on a working surface. Gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1/4 thick. Repeat. Lightly season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
3. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour and season that with salt and pepper.
4. In another dish, whisk the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
5. In a mini food processor chop up 2 cups of parmesan cheese until its fine. ( See the picture below)
6. In a third dish, mix together panko and grated parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
7. Working with one piece at a time, dip the chicken in the flour, then coat the chicken on both sides with the egg. Let the excess run off. Next cover both sides in the panko crumbs and parmesan.
8. Place the chicken on a large baking sheet or platter and repeat. Line a large baking sheets parchment paper and a wire rack.
9. In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat until the oil is shimmery and the butter is melted. Place as many pieces of chicken in the pan as can fit without crowding. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-5 minutes per side.
10. Transfer the chicken to wire rack lined baking sheet. Continue with the remaining chicken. You should add more oil and butter as necessary!
11. Place the chicken in the oven to keep warm until it’s time to serve.
12. Serve with a fresh lemon slices for even more flavor!

Cooking Parmesan Crusted Chicken Two Ways

There are a few different cooking methods you can choose from, depending on your preferences and available equipment. Here are two of the most popular methods: baking and pan-frying.

Baking Method

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each chicken breast to help promote browning and add a touch of flavor.

Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy. To ensure even cooking, flip the chicken halfway through the baking time.

Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should register at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. Once the chicken reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pan-Frying Method

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should register at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. Once the chicken reaches the desired temperature, transfer it to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Tips and Tricks for Extra Crispy Chicken

While the basic recipe for Parmesan crusted chicken is already a winner, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to take it to the next level of crispiness. Here are a few suggestions to ensure your chicken turns out EXTRA crispy and delicious:

1. Use Panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are larger and coarser than regular breadcrumbs, resulting in a crunchier crust!
2. Double coat the chicken: For an even thicker and crunchier crust, consider double coating the chicken. After the first coating of egg wash and breadcrumb mixture, dip the chicken back into the egg wash and breadcrumbs for a second time. This will create a more substantial crust.
3. Add spices and herbs: To add an extra layer of flavor to your chicken, consider incorporating spices and herbs into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Try adding garlic powder, dried herbs, or even chili flakes to give your chicken a kick.
4. Refrigerate before cooking: After breading the chicken, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the crust set and adhere to the chicken, resulting in a crispier coating.
5. Use a wire rack: Placing the coated chicken on a wire rack instead of a baking sheet allows hot air to circulate evenly around the chicken. This promotes even browning and crispiness on all sides.

Hopefully whatever method you chose in your cooking process, you’ll be able to achieve a chicken that is not only deliciously crispy but also super flavorful!

Serving Ideas (What to Eat with Parmesan Crusted Chicken)

Parmesan crusted chicken is a dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are a few serving ideas and pairings to steal.

1. Classic sides: Serve your Parmesan crusted chicken with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the crispy chicken, while steamed vegetables add a healthy and vibrant touch to the meal.
2. Pasta and marinara sauce: Toss some pasta in your favorite marinara sauce and serve it alongside the Parmesan crusted chicken. The combination of the crispy chicken and the tomato sauce creates a comforting and satisfying meal.
3. Lemon butter sauce: Drizzle a tangy and buttery lemon sauce over the crispy chicken to add a burst of freshness. The acidity from the lemon balances out the richness of the chicken, creating the most wonderful flavor. This is why I suggest you serve this chicken with fresh lemons!
4. Sandwiches and wraps: Slice the crusted chicken and use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Add some fresh lettuce, tomatoes, bacon and your favorite condiments for a quick and delicious lunch.
5. Salad topper: Chop the Parmesan crusted chicken into bite-sized pieces and use it as a topping for salads. The crispy texture of the chicken adds a delightful crunch to your greens, making it a satisfying and filling meal.

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different sides and sauces to find your own perfect pairing. The possibilities are endless!

Parmesan Crusted Chicken FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese to create unique flavors. Try using cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a twist on the classic Parmesan crust.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   While Parmesan crusted chicken is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to cook. Follow the breading process and refrigerate the coated chicken for up to 24 hours before baking or frying.
3. Can I freeze Parmesan crusted chicken?
   Yep, you can freeze Parmesan crusted chicken for future use. After coating the chicken, place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before baking or frying.
4. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
   Yes! You can use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as dark meat takes longer to cook than white meat. Also make sure to make the chicken as flat as you can using our method above. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked chicken.