Description
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a crispy, golden-brown skillet-fried dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful blend of Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and panko breadcrumbs. Perfectly seasoned and pan-fried to a crunchy finish, this easy-to-make meal pairs wonderfully with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken:
- 4 small boneless skinless chicken breasts or 4 chicken cutlets
Coating:
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ tablespoon salt
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded
Cooking:
- ⅓ cup olive oil
Garnish:
- 4 portions lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: If using whole chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness about ½ inch thick to ensure even cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, Italian seasoning, and salt. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs until frothy. In a third shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the finely shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Dredge the Chicken: Coat each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the whisked eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the panko and Parmesan mixture, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning and ensure thorough cooking.
- Drain and Rest: Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes to lock in juices.
- Serve: Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken to add a bright, tangy flavor.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can double dredge by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- If you prefer baking over frying, bake coated chicken breasts at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of salt based on your dietary preferences.
- This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Keywords: Parmesan Crusted Chicken, Chicken Cutlets, Crispy Chicken Breast, Fried Chicken, Italian Seasoning, Parmesan Chicken