Baked Parmesan and Herb Crusted Chicken: A Comforting Family Favorite
Imagine walking into your kitchen and being enveloped by the irresistible aroma of garlic, herbs, and something undeniably cheesy. You pull open the oven door to reveal a golden-brown chicken breast, its crust shimmering with parmesan and fresh herbs. This is the magic of Baked Parmesan and Herb Crusted Chicken – a simple dinner that transforms any night into a festive cooking experience. As I reminisce, I can almost hear the laughter of family gathered around the dining table, savoring every bite of this homemade dish that has become a staple in our lives.
Why Make This Recipe
Baked Parmesan and Herb Crusted Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a delicious adventure that brings comfort and joy. Here are a few reasons why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:
- Quick Prep: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
- Cozy Flavors: The combination of parmesan cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs creates an inviting warmth that wraps around you like a favorite blanket.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish always impresses and satisfies.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize it to your taste with herbs and spices you love or have on hand.
- Healthy Choice: Baked, not fried, this chicken is a guilt-free indulgence packed with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to bring Baked Parmesan and Herb Crusted Chicken to life:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Fresh or thawed, these will be the stars of your dish.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Use fresh for that unmatched flavor; pre-grated works in a pinch.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Choose Italian-style for added herbs or plain for simplicity.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley: Chopped finely; it brings a bright, fresh note. You can substitute with dried herbs; just use less.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: A staple in many kitchens, it pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 2 garlic cloves: Minced; the heart of the flavor! Feel free to use garlic powder in a pinch.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken perfectly.
- 2 eggs: Whisked; they’ll act as a binder for the crust.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
This dish is quick for a comforting recipe, but it’s also worth savoring every moment, especially when it fills your home with such delightful aromas.
How to Make Baked Parmesan and Herb Crusted Chicken
Now, let’s bring this dish to life. Follow these simple steps to create a meal that’s as nourishing for the soul as it is for the stomach:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken bakes evenly and achieves that lovely golden crust.
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Prepare the chicken: Begin by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound them to an even thickness for even cooking. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Make the coating: In a bowl, combine the grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, oregano, and minced garlic. Stir until well mixed. This mixture is where the magic happens, providing an irresistible crunch.
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Dredging station: In another bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. This will help the cheesy breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken beautifully.
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Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and then press it into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure they are coated well – we want every surface covered!
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Arrange in a baking dish: Place the coated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
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Bake to perfection: Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the crust is golden brown.
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Serve and enjoy: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes, letting the juices settle before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides, and watch as everyone gathers around, ready to dig in.
Tips and Creative Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish! Here are some fun twists you can try:
- Herb Variations: Mix it up by adding thyme, basil, or even a bit of rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for a unique flavor profile.
- Cheesy Delight: Add a layer of mozzarella on top of the chicken during the last five minutes of baking for an extra cheesy treat.
- Spice it Up: For a kick, incorporate red pepper flakes into the crumb mixture or use spicy Italian sausage in the breadcrumbs.
Serving Ideas
Imagine gathering your family around the table, plates filled with beautifully crusted chicken, alongside garlic mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh garden salad. For a cozy, comforting setting, pair this dish with a light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, or sparkling water with a hint of lemon. It’s a meal that’s not just about sustenance, but about togetherness and shared memories.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers (which I doubt with how delicious this chicken is!), you’ll want to store it properly. Place cooled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, layer the chicken between parchment paper in an airtight freezer-safe container; it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Pro Tips for Success
- Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken ahead of time – coat it in the crumbs and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Serve It Right: Always let the chicken rest before slicing to retain its juices for that perfect tender bite.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer for the best results; it’s the most reliable way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked.
- Customize Your Crust: Feel free to add nuts or seeds to the coating for a unique texture and flavor.
- Go Fresh: Fresh herbs elevate the dish, so if you have them on hand, don’t hesitate to use them!
FAQs
Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure the chicken is fully cooled before freezing. It can be frozen for up to three months.
What’s the best substitute for breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed cornflakes or ground almonds as a gluten-free alternative.
Can I use skin-on chicken?
Certainly! Just increase your cooking time a little, and enjoy that extra crispy skin.
How can I adjust the flavors?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs based on your preferences.
Conclusion
Baked Parmesan and Herb Crusted Chicken is more than just a comforting recipe; it’s a delightful way to gather loved ones around the table. With each bite, you’ll experience the melding of flavors that make this dish a family favorite, bridging generations and creating new traditions. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joyous spirit of cooking, and share this warm, heartening meal with those you cherish the most. After all, the best recipes are the ones that bring us together. Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!
Contents
Baked Parmesan and Herb Crusted Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Fresh or thawed chicken breasts.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese Fresh is recommended for best flavor.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Italian-style recommended for added herbs.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley Chopped finely; can substitute with dried herbs.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano Pairs well with chicken.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced; can use garlic powder as a substitute.
- to taste none salt and pepper Essential for seasoning.
- 2 pieces eggs Whisked to act as a binder.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
Coating
- In a bowl, combine the grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, oregano, and minced garlic. Stir until well mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy.
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, allow excess to drip off, then press into the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure they are coated well.
Baking
- Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish with some space between them.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Serving
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.