Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a tasty and easy recipe that brings a crispy, savory topping to tender chicken breasts. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s a sure crowd-pleaser that the whole family will love!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe for Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a great choice because it combines familiar ingredients into a delicious meal. It’s quick to prepare and doesn’t require fancy cooking techniques. Plus, the crispy Parmesan topping adds a delightful crunch that makes the chicken irresistible. It’s a simple way to elevate chicken into a restaurant-style dish right at home!
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Making Parmesan Crusted Chicken is straightforward. You will start by seasoning and searing the chicken, then add a creamy ranch dressing and a crunchy topping before baking it to perfection. Follow these steps for a flavorful meal!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish.
- Spread the ranch dressing evenly over each chicken breast.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, provolone (or mozzarella), panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley until well combined.
- Press the crumb mixture over each piece of chicken to create a nice topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes for a wonderful meal.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken
You can serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken with a variety of sides. Classic choices include steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You may also drizzle additional ranch dressing on the side for dipping. It can be a hearty meal that satisfies everyone’s appetite!
How to Store Parmesan Crusted Chicken
If you have leftovers, store your Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, maintaining that crispy topping as much as possible.
Tips to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh herbs can enhance the taste significantly.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne for a little kick.
- Ensure even cooking by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by using different kinds of cheese such as cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. Additionally, try adding chopped cooked bacon to the breadcrumb mixture for extra crunch and a smoky taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
2. What can I use instead of ranch dressing?
If you don’t have ranch dressing, consider using blue cheese dressing or a creamy garlic dressing as alternatives.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and apply the ranch dressing and topping ahead of time, then store it in the fridge. Bake when you are ready to serve for a quick meal!
Enjoy your homemade Parmesan Crusted Chicken – it’s sure to become a favorite dish in your home!
