Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian seasoned); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon salt; Fresh parsley

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Introduction

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines a crispy, golden Parmesan coating with tender, juicy chicken breasts. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and delicious without fuss.

Two golden brown breaded chicken fillets with a crispy texture are placed side by side in a round metal pan. They are sprinkled with small pieces of green fresh herbs, adding a touch of color. In the background, there is a stack of two white plates with light green speckles, and two forks rest on the top plate. To the left, a small lemon wedge and some scattered chopped herbs sit on a white marbled surface. The overall look is warm and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian seasoned work best)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and grated Parmesan cheese. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Spread the mayo-Parmesan mixture evenly over the tops of each chicken breast. Then, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the coated chicken, pressing lightly so the crumbs adhere.
Step 4: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the crust turns golden and crispy.
Step 5: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve the chicken hot alongside your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer, more authentic flavor.
Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier crust compared to regular breadcrumbs.
For extra golden tops, broil the chicken for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking—watch closely to avoid burning.
Add a small amount of Dijon mustard to the mayo mixture for an added tangy flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crispy, or microwave briefly if short on time.

How to Serve

Two pieces of golden brown breaded chicken with a crispy, textured coating sprinkled with green herbs sit in a round stainless steel pan. The chicken has a slightly rough surface with hints of black and orange from seasoning, showing a well-fried crust. The pan is shiny with reflections, resting on a white marbled texture. In the background, there is a stack of white plates with a fork on top, and a partially visible lemon wedge with some scattered green herbs nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the baking time slightly and check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are fully cooked.

Is mayonnaise necessary for the coating?

Mayonnaise helps the Parmesan and breadcrumbs stick to the chicken and adds moisture. You can substitute with Greek yogurt or mustard if preferred, but the texture may vary slightly.