Name: Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1 cup dill pickle juice; 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking oil (for frying, such as vegetable or canola oil)

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving a dish that combines tangy, crispy, and cheesy flavors all in one bite, then you need to try making Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken. This delightfully crunchy chicken is marinated in dill pickle juice to infuse it with a zesty tang, then coated with a savory Parmesan breadcrumb crust that delivers unbeatable texture and taste. It’s like the perfect harmony of dill pickles and cheesy goodness that’ll have you reaching for seconds without hesitation.

Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create that irresistible Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken. Each element plays a key role—whether it’s for the marinade, the crispy coating, or seasoning—to build layers of flavor and texture that make this dish unforgettable.

4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless: The star of the show, tender and juicy, perfect for soaking up flavors.
1 cup dill pickle juice: Adds a punch of tangy brightness that tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs: Provides the golden, crunchy coating that makes each bite crave-worthy.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty richness that amplifies the crispy crust.
2 large eggs: Helps the coating stick to the chicken for even, crispy coverage.
½ cup all-purpose flour: The first layer of breading, seasoned to add extra depth to the crust.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle savory kick within the flour mixture.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances aroma and flavor complexity without overpowering.
½ teaspoon paprika: Adds mild smokiness and color to the flour seasoning.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
Cooking oil (for frying): Used to achieve that perfectly crisp, golden-brown exterior.

How to Make Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by soaking your chicken breasts in a bowl of dill pickle juice. This is the secret behind the ‘Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken’ magic—the pickle juice tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with a delicious tangy zing. Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld deep into the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up three shallow dishes for breading. In the first bowl, mix the flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika—this seasoned flour base adds a flavorful crunch. Whisk eggs in the second bowl, which will act as the glue between the chicken and coating. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese—the flavorful crust that will make every bite sing.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour enough cooking oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom and warm it over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a breadcrumb dropped in immediately starts to sizzle. This step is crucial to achieving that signature crispiness without absorbing too much oil.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Remove each chicken breast from the pickle juice marinade and gently shake off excess liquid. Dredge them first in the seasoned flour, then dip into the whipped eggs, and finally press generously into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Ensuring each piece is well coated sets the stage for the perfect crunch.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Carefully lay the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 5 to 7 minutes until the coating is a delightful golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Avoid overcrowding the skillet so each piece cooks evenly and stays crispy.

Step 6: Drain and Rest

Once cooked, move the chicken breasts onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Then, let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period helps keep the juices locked inside, ensuring your Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken is tender and moist.

Step 7: Serve or Store

Whether you’re ready to dig in immediately or planning to save some for later, this chicken is ready for both. Serve hot for maximum crispiness, or cool completely before storing in an airtight container for delicious leftovers.

How to Serve Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of green and a fresh herbal note that pairs beautifully with the tangy chicken. A few dill pickle slices on the side or a light drizzle of ranch dressing make fantastic accompaniments as well.

Side Dishes

The savory, crispy flavor of the Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken pairs wonderfully with creamy coleslaw, buttery mashed potatoes, or a bright and crunchy garden salad. For a lighter option, roasted vegetables or steamed green beans provide a nice balance to the richness of the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken and serve it atop a fresh Caesar salad for an irresistible entrée. Or, layer the chicken in a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and a smear of mayo or Dijon mustard for an elevated deli-style meal. You can even chop it up for protein-packed tacos with pickled jalapeños and creamy avocado.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freeze the cooked chicken wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring back the crispy texture, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method keeps the crust crunchy better than microwaving, which can make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use pickle juice from sweet pickles instead of dill?

Absolutely! While dill pickle juice is traditional and imparts a more herbaceous tang, sweet pickle juice can add a subtle sweetness to your chicken. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite flavor combination for the Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken in pickle juice?

Marinating in pickle juice is key to achieving that signature tang and tender texture. Skipping this step means missing out on a big part of what makes this recipe special, so I definitely recommend it if you want full flavor.

Can I bake the Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken instead of frying?

You can, but frying gives you the best crispiness and flavor. If you want to bake, place the breaded chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. It won’t be quite as crunchy but still delicious.

What’s the best way to know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Using an instant-read thermometer is the most reliable method. The chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F. This ensures it’s juicy, safe to eat, and prevents overcooking.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully too. They tend to be more forgiving and stay juicy, but may require slightly less cooking time because of their size and higher fat content.

Final Thoughts

I honestly can’t recommend the Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken enough—it’s a fun twist on classic fried chicken with a tangy punch and irresistible crunch. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or just jazz up weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers in flavor and satisfaction. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes!

Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 20 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

Print Recipe

Description

Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken offers a deliciously tangy twist on classic fried chicken. Marinated in dill pickle juice and coated with a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust, this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken breasts that are easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying meal.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts with the dill pickle juice. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse and tenderize the meat.
Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three separate bowls. In the first bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese.
Preheat the Oil: Heat enough cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat to cover the bottom thinly. Test the oil by dropping a breadcrumb in; it should sizzle upon contact, indicating the correct temperature.
Coat the Chicken: Remove each chicken breast from the marinade, shaking off excess juice. Dredge the chicken first in the seasoned flour, then dip into the whisked eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry each side for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a plate lined with paper towels to remove any excess oil and keep the coating crispy.
Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices and keeps the chicken tender.
Serve or Store: Serve the crispy dill pickle Parmesan chicken immediately, or allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container for future meals.

Notes

Use a thermometer to check for doneness to ensure food safety and juiciness.
For extra crispiness, double-dip in the egg and breadcrumb mixture.
Season your breadcrumbs for additional flavor if using plain breadcrumbs.
Leftover chicken can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
This recipe pairs well with a side of coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American