Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Golden, Juicy & Irresistible
If you’re looking for the ultimate crispy, cheesy, and juicy chicken recipe, this Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is an absolute must-try! Golden brown, crunchy on the outside, and tender on the inside, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
Coated in a flavor-packed Parmesan and panko crust, this chicken is pan-fried to perfection, creating an irresistibly crunchy bite. It’s quick, easy, and pairs beautifully with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables—making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy & Crunchy Perfection – The golden Parmesan crust adds the perfect crunch.
✔ Juicy & Tender Chicken – Stays moist inside while crispy on the outside.
✔ Packed with Flavor – Parmesan, garlic, and seasonings make every bite delicious.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in 25 minutes for a stress-free meal.
✔ Versatile & Family-Friendly – Serve with pasta, salad, veggies, or as a sandwich.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- 1 tbsp butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to ½-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Bowl 1: Add flour.
- Bowl 2: Whisk together eggs and water.
- Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Press into the Parmesan-panko mixture, coating both sides evenly.
Step 4: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan.
- Serve with lemon wedges, pasta, salad, or roasted veggies.
Recipe Variations & Add-Ins
🔹 Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper to the breading.
🔹 Extra Cheesy: Use a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for gooey goodness.
🔹 Oven-Baked Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
🔹 Gluten-Free Alternative: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Best Ways to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken
✔ With Pasta: Pair with garlic butter pasta, creamy alfredo, or spaghetti marinara.
✔ As a Sandwich: Serve on a brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and aioli.
✔ On a Salad: Slice over a Caesar or arugula salad.
✔ With Roasted Veggies: Perfect with asparagus, green beans, or mashed potatoes.
Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Freeze for Later: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
✔ Reheat & Keep Crispy: Warm in a 375°F oven for 10 minutes or air fryer for 5 minutes.
Why Everyone Loves This Parmesan Chicken
✨ Crispy, Cheesy & Flavorful – A perfect golden crust with juicy chicken inside.
✨ Fast & Easy Dinner – Simple ingredients & ready in 25 minutes!
✨ Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays crispy & delicious even after reheating.
✨ Versatile & Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike!
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is golden, crunchy, cheesy, and absolutely addictive! Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner, a sandwich, or meal prepping, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
So grab your chicken, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs, and make this irresistible dish today!