Parmesan Chicken

Parmesan chicken is a dish that warms the heart and feeds the soul. Just the mention of "Parmesan chicken" brings back memories of family dinners, where laughter and good food created lasting moments. It is a recipe that many people love because it’s packed with flavor, has a cheesy, crispy crust, and remains surprisingly simple to prepare. This dish is loved not just for its taste but also for its comfort factor. It’s a great way to bring the family together over a delicious meal. If you’re looking for a dish that will impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen, this Parmesan chicken is definitely worth trying.

Why Make This Recipe

What makes this Parmesan chicken recipe special? First, it is incredibly easy to make. You don’t need to have advanced cooking skills to bring this dish to life. Many of the ingredients are likely already in your pantry. Second, the combination of crispy breading with melted cheese is simply mouthwatering. The flavors blend perfectly, creating a dish that everyone at the table will love. You can pair it with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a wonderful meal that feels fancy without being complicated.

This recipe is also perfect for busy weeknights. You can prepare it quickly and pop it into the oven, giving you time to help the kids with homework or catch up on your favorite show. It’s also great for family gatherings or holidays, as it feeds a crowd and looks wonderful on the table. Plus, it has that comforting familiarity that makes everyone feel right at home. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced in the kitchen, this dish is a winner all around.

How to Make Parmesan Chicken

Making Parmesan chicken is all about building wonderful flavors and textures. Imagine the excitement as you prepare to create something delicious. You start by setting up your space. With your ingredients ready, you’ll feel like a chef in your own kitchen. As you dip the chicken breasts in the egg wash, the smell of garlic starts to fill the air, making your kitchen feel warm and welcoming.

The breading station is easy to set up. You’ll grab three bowls: one for flour, one for the egg mixture, and the last for the flavorful breadcrumb mixture. The sounds of bread crumbs crunching as you mix them with the cheese and seasonings will make your mouth water. Once your chicken breasts are coated and ready, placing them in the greased baking dish feels like a job well done. Sprinkling on the remaining Parmesan cheese will give them an extra cheesy, crunchy topping.

As the chicken bakes, your home will be filled with the irresistible smell of baked cheese and seasoned chicken. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a golden-brown dish that looks and smells amazing, ready to be enjoyed by family and friends.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this Parmesan chicken recipe:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The chicken is the heart of the dish. Choosing boneless and skinless makes it easier to prepare and eat.

• 1 cup bread crumbs: This provides the crunchy coating that makes the chicken so satisfying to bite into. You can use store-bought or make your own with stale bread.

• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, divided: Parmesan cheese adds a rich flavor to both the breading and the top. You can use grated or shredded Parmesan.

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: This cheese melts beautifully, adding a gooey texture to the dish. If you’re dairy-free, you could use nut-based cheese.

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Flour helps the breading stick to the chicken and gives it a nice crust. You can substitute with almond flour or a gluten-free blend if needed.

• 2 large eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent. They help the bread crumbs stick to the chicken.

• 1/4 cup milk: Milk adds moisture to the egg mixture, making it creamier. You can use any milk you prefer, including soy or oat milk.

• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic enhances the flavor with a savory touch. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can be a quick alternative.

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This adds a mix of herbs that bring warmth and aroma to the dish. You can easily make your own blend if you don’t have any on hand.

Directions

This is how you can make your own Parmesan chicken at home:

1. Preheat your oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for the chicken.

2. Set up a breading station: You’ll need three bowls. In one bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. In the third bowl, mix the bread crumbs, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning.

3. Breading the chicken: Take one chicken breast and dip it first into the flour. Make sure to shake off any excess flour. Then, dip it into the egg mixture. Lastly, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Be sure to cover the chicken evenly. Repeat this process for each chicken breast.

4. Place in a baking dish: Grease your baking dish with cooking spray or some oil to prevent sticking. Lay the coated chicken breasts in the dish side by side, giving them enough space.

5. Add extra cheese: After placing the chicken, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese on top. This will create a nice crust when baked.

6. Bake the chicken: Put the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and has a beautiful golden brown color.

7. Serve hot: Once the chicken is done, it is best to serve it hot. Enjoy the delicious flavors and crispy texture!

Remember to check the doneness by making sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked safely.

How to Serve Parmesan Chicken

Parmesan chicken is a versatile dish when it comes to serving it. You can enjoy it straight from the oven with your favorite sides or transform it into a full meal. Pair it with a fresh green salad for a light dinner or with roasted vegetables for a more filling option. Pasta is another great companion; a light garlic butter sauce drizzled over spaghetti can elevate this meal.

If you’re hosting friends, consider preparing it for a family-style dinner. Slice the chicken into strips for easy sharing and serve it alongside some garlic bread. This dish can even work as a filling for a sandwich. Place a slice of Parmesan chicken on some crusty bread and add some tomatoes and lettuce, and you have a delicious lunch ready to go.

How to Store Parmesan Chicken

If you have any leftovers (although it’s hard not to finish every bite), storing Parmesan chicken is quite simple. Allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Slice the chicken into pieces to help it freeze and thaw evenly. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. This can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

When reheating, place the chicken in the oven at a low temperature to help retain its moisture rather than in the microwave, which can make it dry. Just make sure it is heated all the way through before serving again.

Tips to Make Parmesan Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Parmesan chicken, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Use cold water for the egg wash and milk mixture. This helps keep things from getting too soupy.
• Grate cheese fresh for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often has additives that can affect melting.
• Don’t overbake the chicken. Keep an eye on it after the 25-minute mark to prevent dryness.
• For extra crunch, consider adding some crushed cornflakes or panko bread crumbs to the breadcrumb mix.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This helps keep all the juices in.

Variation

There are so many ways to tweak this Parmesan chicken recipe for new flavors. Here are a few ideas:

1. Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture to give it a slight kick.
2. Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil directly into the breadcrumb mixture for a fresh taste.
3. Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour and bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives, like almond flour and gluten-free bread crumbs.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Parmesan chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken in advance. Bread the chicken and place it in the baking dish, then cover it and keep it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This can save you time on busy evenings!

Q: What’s the best way to reheat it?
The best way to reheat Parmesan chicken is in the oven at 350°F (175°C). This will keep it from drying out. Cover it loosely with foil to prevent too much browning, and heat until warm, usually about 10-15 minutes.

Q: Can I use a different cheese or flour?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavors. And as mentioned earlier, almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs can work well if you need a gluten-free option.

In conclusion, Parmesan chicken is more than just a recipe — it’s a way to create cherished moments around the dinner table. With its simple preparation and irresistible flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive gathering. So gather your ingredients and bring a bit of joy to your kitchen with this delightful dish!

Parmesan Chicken

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• Author: phillip
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free (if substituting flour and breadcrumbs)

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Description

A heartwarming and flavorful chicken dish with a cheesy, crispy crust that’s simple to prepare and perfect for family gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for the egg mixture (eggs and milk), and one for the breadcrumb mixture (bread crumbs, 1/2 cup Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, and Italian seasoning).
3. Bread the chicken by dipping each breast into flour, then egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place the breaded chicken in a greased baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For extra crunch, consider adding crushed cornflakes or panko to the breadcrumb mix. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: Parmesan chicken, easy chicken dinner, family meal, Italian chicken, comfort food