This Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is tender, juicy, and full of flavor with a crispy golden crust that melts in your mouth. Coated with a savory blend of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and seasoning, then baked in butter for extra richness, this recipe is a perfect main dish for weeknights or special occasions. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or cutlets)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian or panko)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional for extra crispiness)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
- 1 egg, beaten
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with foil for easy cleanup and lightly coat it with non-stick spray or brush with olive oil.
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well blended. This mixture will give the chicken its signature crunchy crust.
3. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispier finish.
If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally or pound them gently to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.
4. Dredge and Coat
Set up a simple coating station:
- Place the flour in one shallow bowl.
- Beat the egg in another bowl.
- Place the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture in a third bowl.
Lightly coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it in the beaten egg, then press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Prepare the Butter Base
Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lay the coated chicken breasts in the dish, turning once to coat both sides with a bit of butter. This will help the crust turn golden and flavorful as it bakes.
6. Bake the Chicken
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Halfway through, spoon a little melted butter from the dish over the tops for added moisture and flavor.
If you want a darker, crispier crust, broil the chicken for the last 1–2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
7. Rest and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a light dusting of Parmesan for a beautiful finishing touch.
Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Don’t skip the butter: It not only adds flavor but also helps the crust brown evenly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and gives a richer, nuttier taste than pre-shredded cheese.
- Even thickness: Pounding the chicken ensures it cooks evenly and stays juicy.
- Avoid overbaking: Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer — it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
This golden, buttery chicken pairs wonderfully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for a classic comfort meal.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
- A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic bread or rice pilaf for a complete family-style dinner.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This keeps the coating crisp and prevents sogginess. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soft.
Conclusion
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a timeless dish that’s simple enough for busy nights but elegant enough for guests. The combination of crispy coating, tender meat, and buttery flavor makes it irresistible. Whether served with a side of vegetables or your favorite pasta, it’s a delicious meal that everyone will love — comforting, flavorful, and perfectly golden every time.