Pan-fried parmesan crusted chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe delivers crispy, golden-brown crust with juicy, tender chicken inside. The combination of parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs creates a flavor profile that's both savory and satisfying. Let's dive into the details of making this delicious dish!
What Makes This Recipe So Good?
This recipe stands out because it focuses on achieving that perfect balance of crispy crust and tender chicken. We'll avoid overcooking the chicken by using a combination of pan-frying and a quick oven finish (optional). The parmesan crust adds a fantastic salty, cheesy flavor, and the herbs provide an aromatic depth that elevates the dish beyond your average chicken breast. It's a recipe that's easy to customize to your liking too!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- Chicken Breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking. About 1.5 lbs total.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan cheese is crucial for that signature crispy crust. Aim for freshly grated for the best flavor and texture.
- Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs work best, but you can experiment with seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor. Panko breadcrumbs offer a lighter, crispier crust.
- Eggs: Large eggs, lightly beaten, serve as a binder for the crust.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme add a burst of freshness and aroma. Dried herbs can be substituted, but use less (about 1/3 the amount).
- Garlic Powder: A small amount of garlic powder enhances the savory notes.
- Salt and Pepper: Season generously for optimal flavor.
- Butter or Olive Oil: For pan-frying the chicken.
How to Make Pan-Fried Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch) to ensure even cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Make the Crust: In a shallow dish, combine the grated parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, herbs, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then dredge thoroughly in the parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well.
- Pan-Fry the Chicken: Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Optional Oven Finish: For extra crispy chicken, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven (400°F/200°C) for 5-7 minutes. This helps cook the chicken through completely while ensuring a perfectly crispy crust.
- Serve: Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
While you can use frozen chicken breasts, it's best to thaw them completely before breading and frying. Frozen chicken will take significantly longer to cook and may not achieve the same crispy texture.
What other herbs can I use?
Feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil, rosemary, or Italian seasoning. The possibilities are endless!
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use a cooking spray instead of butter or olive oil to reduce fat. You can also substitute some of the breadcrumbs with crushed almonds or oats for added fiber.
Can I bake this chicken instead of pan-frying?
Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. However, the crust might not be as crispy as when pan-fried.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.
What can I serve with this dish?
This pan-fried parmesan crusted chicken pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or rice.
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Remember to adjust seasoning and herbs to your preferences for a truly personalized dish. Enjoy!
