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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breasts with fresh herbs and melted cheese

Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts

A simple crust transforms plain chicken into a satisfying meal, perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (About 6 ounces each) Choose even-sized pieces for uniform cooking; halve thick breasts for quicker, juicier results.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated yields the best flavor; avoid pre-shredded for optimal adhesion.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Preferably panko) Panko provides the crispiest texture; toast regular breadcrumbs lightly if needed.
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced) Mince right before using to preserve brightness.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped) Use bright green parsley for a fresh finish.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs (beaten)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Mixing a teaspoon of butter with olive oil can enhance flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  4. Set up a breading station by placing the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumb mixture in a third shallow dish.
Cooking
  1. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
  2. Coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help it adhere.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  4. Transfer the chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For an ultra-crisp crust, finish under the broiler for 1 minute while watching closely. Allowing breaded chicken to chill for 10 min before searing helps set the coating.