If you’re craving something crispy, cheesy, and absolutely bursting with flavor, then this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is exactly what you need. It’s golden on the outside, juicy on the inside, and so easy to make that you’ll want it on your weekly dinner rotation. Whether you're cooking for your family or impressing guests, this dish checks all the boxes: simple, satisfying, and stunningly delicious.
With a crunchy parmesan and breadcrumb coating that’s perfectly seasoned and pan-fried to golden perfection, this dish brings serious restaurant-quality vibes straight to your kitchen.
Why This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Is a Must-Try
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Crispy and cheesy crust
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Tender, juicy chicken breast inside
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Ready in under 30 minutes
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Perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties
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Pairs beautifully with salads, pastas, or veggies
This recipe proves that comfort food doesn't have to be complicated. A few pantry staples, a quick dredge, and a sizzling hot skillet are all you need to make this dish shine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to bring your parmesan crusted dreams to life:
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2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 thin cutlets)
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best results)
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½ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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2 large eggs
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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2–3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
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Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
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Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Slice each chicken breast horizontally into two thin cutlets. If needed, pound to even thickness using a meat mallet. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station
Prepare three shallow dishes:
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Flour — in the first dish
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Eggs — beaten in the second dish
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Parmesan mixture — combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in the third
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Coat each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally press into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even, full coating on both sides.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken (in batches if necessary) and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F/74°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
What to Serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This dish is incredibly versatile, pairing well with a variety of sides:
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Pasta with a light cream or tomato sauce
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Caesar or arugula salad
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Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans
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Buttery rice pilaf or quinoa
You can even slice it up and add it to sandwiches, wraps, or atop salads for a protein-packed lunch.
Pro Tips for Crispy Success
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Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan—this helps keep the crust from steaming.
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Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.
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Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-packaged.
Make It in the Oven or Air Fryer
Looking for a lighter option? Here’s how to adapt the recipe:
Oven-Baked Version:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place breaded chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Air Fryer Version:
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Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
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Place chicken in a single layer in the basket.
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Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
Storage and Reheating
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Wrap cooked chicken tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven or air fryer for best texture—avoid the microwave, which can make the crust soggy.
Delicious Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try switching it up with these fun twists:
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Parmesan Dijon Chicken: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the egg mixture for tang.
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Spicy Kick: Mix crushed red pepper or cayenne into the breadcrumb mix.
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Herb Crusted: Add finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or basil for a fragrant herb crust.
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Mozzarella Melt: Add a slice of mozzarella on top in the last minute of cooking and let it melt for a gooey twist.
Final Thoughts: A Crispy Classic That Never Disappoints
This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is the ultimate combination of easy prep, bold flavor, and satisfying crunch. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, whether served as a main course, a sandwich filling, or sliced into a salad. With just a handful of pantry staples and less than 30 minutes of your time, you can serve up a golden, cheesy masterpiece that’s worthy of a spot in your regular rotation.
So go ahead—grab your skillet, grab that cheese, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s irresistible from the very first bite.
