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Parmesan Crusted Chicken – Crispy, Juicy, and Ready in 30 Minutes!

There’s something absolutely magical about a dish that’s both simple to make and impressively delicious. This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is just that. With a crispy golden crust made from freshly grated Parmesan cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs, and a juicy, tender chicken breast at the center, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this chicken recipe delivers flavor, texture, and elegance with minimal effort. It's pan-fried to perfection and served beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad. With just a handful of pantry staples and 30 minutes from start to finish, you'll have a meal that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant — but was made right in your kitchen.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🥩 Viandes:
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 large breasts sliced in half lengthwise)
🧄 Fruits et légumes:
  • 2 cloves garlic finely minced (optional, for flavoring the oil)
🧂 Aides culinaires et épices:
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika optional, adds color and depth
🍞 Pains et viennoiseries:
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs
🧀 Produits laitiers:
  • 1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 eggs large
  • 2 tbsp milk to loosen egg mixture
  • 2 tbsp butter for pan-frying
🫒 Huiles et vinaigres:
  • 3 tbsp olive oil extra virgin or light flavor
  • Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and crispiness — it makes all the difference.

Equipment

  • All you need to make Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home:
  • Cutting board
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin (to flatten chicken)
  • Mixing bowls (x3)
  • Whisk
  • Large non-stick or cast-iron skillet
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Paper towels
  • Instant-read thermometer (optional)

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Chicken
  1. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Pound with a meat mallet to about ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.
  2. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
  1. You’ll need 3 shallow bowls:
  2. Flour Bowl – Combine flour, a pinch of salt, and pepper.
  3. Egg Wash Bowl – Whisk 2 eggs with 2 tbsp milk.
  4. Crust Bowl – Mix breadcrumbs, Panko, and grated Parmesan.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
  1. Working with one piece at a time:
  2. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture (shake off excess).
  3. Dip into the egg wash until coated.
  4. Press firmly into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mix, ensuring a solid crust forms.
  5. Place breaded chicken on a plate or tray and repeat.
Step 4: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic for 30 seconds to flavor the oil (optional).
  2. Pan-fry the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
  3. Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if needed.
Step 5: Rest & Serve
  1. Transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels. Let rest 3–5 minutes before slicing or serving.
  2. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes
Air fryer: 375°F for 5–7 minutes
Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain crispiness
Reheat on a wire rack if possible for even airflow.
🥄 Variations
This recipe is super versatile — try these delicious twists:
Herb Crusted: Add chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil to the breadcrumb mix
Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the breading
Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs
Cheese Lovers' Edition: Add shredded mozzarella or provolone to the crust mix
Baked Option: Bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway for crispness
Air Fryer Method: Air fry at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping once
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs work great — just flatten slightly for even cooking.
2. Is freshly grated Parmesan really better?
Yes — it melts better and gives a crispier, less greasy crust than pre-shredded cheese.
3. Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes! Bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Can I freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Yes, after cooking and cooling completely. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven or air fryer.
5. What’s the best way to get the crust to stick?
Dry the chicken well, and press firmly into the breading mixture. Let rest 5 minutes before frying.
6. What should I serve with it?
Try mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, pasta alfredo, or a Caesar salad.
7. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Yes — substitute with your favorite gluten-free panko and flour.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Great for meal prepping. Just fry in batches.
9. Does it taste like Chicken Parmesan?
Similar, but without tomato sauce or mozzarella. Think of it as a crispy, elegant cousin.
10. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
This recipe works best with raw chicken to ensure the crust cooks and adheres properly.
🏁 Conclusion
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is everything we love about comfort food — crispy, flavorful, juicy, and totally satisfying. It’s one of those go-to recipes that never gets old, whether served over salad, pasta, or with your favorite sides.
You’ll love how simple and versatile it is — perfect for beginners and home chefs alike. Once you try it, it’ll be on permanent rotation in your kitchen.