There’s nothing quite as comforting as crispy, golden chicken with a cheesy crust.
This crispy Parmesan crusted chicken delivers tender meat inside with a crunchy, flavorful coating outside.
Perfect for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It combines juicy chicken with a crispy, golden Parmesan crust.
The breading has layers of flavor from garlic, herbs, and paprika.
Quick to prepare with simple pantry staples.
Baked in the oven after pan-searing for extra crunch without being greasy.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Chicken breasts are pounded thin for even cooking and tenderness.
Flour helps the egg mixture stick and creates a light base for breading.
Eggs bind the coating to the chicken.
Parmesan cheese adds savory, cheesy flavor to the crust.
Panko breadcrumbs keep the coating light and extra crispy.
Garlic powder, Italian herbs, and paprika season the crust.
Olive oil or butter ensures a golden, crunchy finish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pound the chicken evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Don’t skip pan-searing—it locks in flavor and helps the coating stick.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to keep it juicy.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Step 1 – Preheat the oven
Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready once the chicken is browned.
Step 2 – Prepare the chicken
Pound chicken breasts to ½ inch thick. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3 – Set up breading station
Place flour in one dish. Whisk eggs with water in another.
Combine Parmesan, panko, garlic powder, herbs, and paprika in a third.
Step 4 – Bread the chicken
Dredge chicken in flour, dip in eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix.
Press gently so the coating sticks.
Step 5 – Sear for crispiness
Heat olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet.
Cook chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 6 – Bake to finish
Transfer skillet to the oven.
Bake for about 10 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 7 – Rest and serve
Let chicken rest a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy warm with your favorite sides.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Serve alongside a fresh green salad or Caesar salad.
Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella for a quick Chicken Parmesan.
Add buttered noodles or rice for a hearty meal.
Variations / Substitutions
Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier meat.
Swap panko with regular breadcrumbs if needed.
Add cayenne or chili flakes to the coating for spice.
Try Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for sharper flavor.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm and crispy.
Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months; reheat from frozen at 375°F.
FAQs
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 6 hours before cooking.
Do I need to use an oven-safe skillet?
It helps for seamless cooking, but you can transfer chicken to a baking sheet after searing.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Why is my coating falling off?
Make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly and avoid moving the chicken too much while searing.
Can I use chicken tenders instead of breasts?
Absolutely, just reduce cooking time since they’re smaller.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Olive oil adds flavor, but you can use avocado or vegetable oil.
Final Thoughts
This crispy Parmesan crusted chicken is the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is simple to prepare.
The crunchy coating, cheesy flavor, and tender inside make it a recipe you’ll want on repeat.
It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pound chicken breasts to ½ inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
- Set up breading: flour in one dish, eggs and water in another, Parmesan-panko mixture in a third.
- Dredge chicken in flour, dip in eggs, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat oil or butter in oven-safe skillet.
- Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake 10 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/crispy-parmesan-crusted-chicken/
Notes
- Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking.
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray coated chicken with oil before baking.
- Works great as the protein for sandwiches or salads.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.