Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken
Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. It features juicy chicken breasts coated with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices. Baking the chicken instead of frying it reduces the amount of oil used while still achieving a crispy and golden coating. This recipe is simple to make and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
INGREDIENTS
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat or panko)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Cooking spray
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray.
In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides.
Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated on all sides.
Place the coated chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly spray the top of the chicken breasts with cooking spray. This will help them become golden and crispy.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken with your choice of sides, such as a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes.
TIPS
- For extra flavor, you can add some dried herbs like thyme, basil, or oregano to the breadcrumb mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
- If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with grated Pecorino Romano or a similar hard cheese.
- To ensure even cooking, try to choose chicken breasts that are of similar thickness. If your chicken breasts are larger, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories
- Protein: Around 30-40 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Fat: Around 10-15 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 1-2 grams
