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Parmesan Crusted Baked Chicken

Juicy chicken breasts with a crisp, cheesy parmesan crust, baked until golden. No flipping, no frying—just a simple, reliable method for a weeknight win.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American-Italian
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese not the powdery kind
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for drizzling
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • wire rack
  • shallow dish
  • meat mallet or rolling pin
  • instant-read thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and set aside.
  2. Place a chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Repeat with all breasts. This ensures even cooking.
  3. Set up a breading station. In a shallow dish, add the flour. In a second shallow dish, whisk the eggs with the water until smooth. In a third shallow dish, combine the panko, parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with a fork.
  4. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Dredge each breast first in the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press firmly into the panko-parmesan mixture, coating all sides. Place on the wire rack.
  5. Drizzle the tops of the breaded chicken with the olive oil. This is key for browning without frying.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the crust is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when tested with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
  7. Let rest on the rack for 5 minutes. The crust will set and stay crisp. Garnish with parsley if desired, and serve.

Notes

Storage: Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven on a rack for 10 minutes to restore crispness—avoid the microwave. Common allergens: dairy (parmesan), eggs, gluten (flour, panko). For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and panko. For dairy-free, omit parmesan and add 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast and an extra 1/4 cup panko. Always consult a qualified professional for specific dietary needs.