Nothing beats a perfectly crispy, golden-baked chicken breast that’s bursting with flavor. Ultimate Parmesan Crusted Chicken elevates simple chicken by combining crunchy panko breadcrumbs with the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese, a hint of garlic, and aromatic spices. This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a special weekend dinner that impresses without hours in the kitchen.

Whether paired with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes, this recipe is a guaranteed family favorite. The best part? It’s baked, not fried, so you get maximum crunch with less oil and less guilt.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Optional garnish: fresh parsley, lemon wedges

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Pound lightly to even thickness (about 1 inch) for consistent cooking.
Set Up Dredging Stations: Place flour in a shallow dish. Beat eggs in another shallow dish. In a third dish, combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the Parmesan-panko mixture. Press gently to adhere.
Bake Chicken: Place coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil or melted butter for extra crispiness.
Cooking Time: Bake for 20–25 minutes, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
Serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Even Thickness: Pounding chicken ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
Extra Crunch: Use a mixture of panko and regular breadcrumbs or lightly toast panko before coating for maximum crispiness.
Cheese Flavor: Freshly grated Parmesan works best; pre-grated can contain anti-caking agents that reduce browning.
Spice Variations: Add Italian seasoning, cayenne, or smoked paprika to vary the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with roasted broccoli or asparagus for a simple, healthy meal.
Serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes or creamy risotto for a more indulgent dinner.
Slice and add to a salad or pasta dish for a protein-packed meal prep option.
Make a sandwich with leftover chicken, fresh arugula, and aioli for a gourmet lunch.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Parmesan cheese, originating from Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, has been used for centuries to enhance savory dishes. Combining it with breadcrumbs to coat proteins became popular in Italian-American cuisine for its texture and flavor. Baked Parmesan chicken is a healthier alternative to fried chicken while maintaining a satisfying crunch.

The panko breadcrumbs used in this recipe were inspired by Japanese cuisine and contribute a lighter, flakier crust than traditional breadcrumbs. This combination of Italian cheese and Japanese-style breadcrumbs makes Ultimate Parmesan Crusted Chicken a cross-cultural culinary delight.

SEO Benefits & Keywords

Incorporating terms such as Parmesan Crusted Chicken, crispy baked chicken, and garlic parmesan chicken ensures this recipe ranks for searches focused on flavorful baked chicken recipes. Supporting keywords like easy dinner recipe and baked chicken breast help attract readers looking for simple yet impressive weeknight meals. Detailed tips, variations, and serving suggestions enhance user engagement and dwell time.