Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless pieces of chicken that serve as the main protein for the dish.

Parmesan cheese: Grated cheese that adds a rich, nutty flavor to the crust.

Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs pre-seasoned with herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the crust.

Garlic powder: A powdered form of garlic that adds a subtle, savory taste.

Paprika: A spice made from ground peppers that adds color and a mild, smoky flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.

Olive oil: Used to brush the chicken breasts, helping the crust adhere and adding moisture.

To ensure the parmesan crust adheres well to the chicken breasts, make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before brushing with olive oil. This helps the parmesan mixture stick better and creates a crispier, more even coating.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and flavor profile to chicken, making them a suitable alternative.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty cheese that can mimic the flavor and texture of parmesan.

• italian seasoned breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs mixed with italian seasoning: Panko breadcrumbs provide a similar crunch, and adding Italian seasoning will replicate the flavor.

• garlic powder - Substitute with minced fresh garlic: Fresh garlic offers a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a similar color and a deeper, smoky flavor to the dish.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar level of seasoning.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor but can be used in the same quantity to provide a similar heat.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.

• Allow the chicken breasts to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the crust soggy.
• Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container. If stacking multiple pieces, separate them with parchment paper to maintain the crust's integrity.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain the crust's crispiness.
• For freezing, wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn and maintains flavor.
• Place the wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and the crust is crispy again.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover parmesan crusted chicken on a baking sheet.
  3. Cover the chicken loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the crust from burning.
  4. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through and the crust is crispy.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan.
  3. Place the leftover chicken in the skillet.
  4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is heated through and the crust is crispy.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the leftover chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. For a crispy crust, you may want to finish it off in a hot skillet for a minute or two.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover parmesan crusted chicken in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through and the crust is crispy.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover chicken on the toaster oven tray.
  3. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through and the crust is crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the chicken breasts at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C).

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Baking sheet: Used to place the coated chicken breasts for baking.

• Brush: Used to apply olive oil evenly on the chicken breasts.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Tongs: Used to handle the chicken breasts without contaminating other surfaces.

• Oven mitts: Used to safely remove the baking sheet from the hot oven.

• Knife: Used to trim any excess fat or unwanted parts from the chicken breasts.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to prepare the chicken breasts.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix the parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and spices ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a baking sheet liner: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.

Pound the chicken: Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness for quicker and more uniform cooking.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin prepping to save waiting time.

Double the recipe: Make extra parmesan crusted chicken and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later.