This Savory Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delectable dish that combines the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and spices with a perfectly baked, crispy crust. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The chicken is juicy and tender on the inside, with a savory crust that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix the Spread: In another bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
4. Prepare the Chicken: Pat dry the chicken breasts with paper towels.
5. Coat the Chicken: Spread a thick layer of the mayonnaise mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
6. Crust the Chicken: Press the coated side of each chicken breast into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is well coated.
7. Bake the Chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
8. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal per Serving: 380 kcal
Servings: 4 servings
Tips
1. Ensure Even Coating: Make sure to press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to get an even coating.
2. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Customize the Crust: Add different herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste preferences.
4. Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the chicken immediately after resting to keep the crust crispy.
Benefits
1. High in Protein: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
2. Rich in Flavor: The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and spices creates a flavorful crust that enhances the taste of the chicken.
3. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to make, even on busy weeknights.
4. Versatile: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the chicken is best served fresh, you can prepare the breadcrumb mixture and mayonnaise spread in advance to save time.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
You can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter option.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.
Conclusion
This Savory Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its flavorful crust and juicy chicken, it’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special dinners. Enjoy the delicious combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and spices in every bite, and don’t forget to serve it with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley for an extra touch of freshness.