Parmesan Chicken crowd-pleasing poultry dish has earned countless perfect ratings from home cooks nationwide. The combination of aromatic garlic, savory cheese, and perfectly crisp exterior makes this budget-friendly entrée an ideal solution for hectic evening meals while delivering Mediterranean–inspired flavors.
Recipe Guide
A straightforward preparation method yields tender chicken recipe enveloped in a golden, herb-enhanced crust. This adaptable preparation deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire, guaranteeing enthusiastic responses with each serving.
How To Make Parmesan Chicken Breast
For the garlic-infused coating:
Extra virgin olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Fresh garlic – 1 clove, finely minced
For the savory crust mixture:
Seasoned bread crumbs (dry) – 1 cup
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated – ⅔ cup
Dried basil – 1 teaspoon
Freshly ground black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
Preparation Method of Parmesan chicken
Creating this highly-rated dish requires minimal effort and a standard rectangular baking dish. Follow these simple instructions for consistently excellent results:
-First, immerse the chicken cutlets in a mixture of olive oil infused with minced garlic, coating each piece thoroughly.
-Next, press each oil-coated portion into a carefully blended mixture of Parmesan cheese and seasoned bread crumbs until completely covered.
-Arrange the prepared chicken pieces in a generously sized baking dish, ensuring they’re properly spaced.
-Allow the dish to bake in your preheated oven until the internal temperature indicates doneness and moisture appears clear rather than pink.
-The entire process requires approximately half an hour from start to finish, resulting in succulent chicken encased in a delightfully textured exterior.
Whip up this fast dinner in no time. Leaving it in the pan beyond 6 minutes means overdone chicken. Quickness is crucial. Crank up the heat and go! (Who doesn’t love a speedy midweek meal, right? 🙂 )
Staying true to the low-carb focus of this dish, I chose cauliflower mash over my typical potato mash. I elevated it with just a hint of browned butter—merely 1/2 teaspoon drizzled over transforms the flavor, adding a fragrant, rich intensity. Truly, if cauliflower mash isn’t your usual go-to, try it with browned butter, and you’ll likely be devouring it in no time!
Imagine the creamy cauliflower puree complementing the crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken—it’s the ideal combination.
TEXT: ULTIMATE LOW-CARB FEAST!! – Nagi x
PS If you were curious, adopting a low-carb diet was not my New Year’s resolution. This dish just happens to be low-carb. 😂 Apologies to those looking for more low-carb recipes. I’ll give it a shot, but no promises…
Perfect Accompaniments
This economical entrée of common kitchen staples complements numerous side options. Consider enhancing your meal with oven-roasted potato wedges, a crisp garden salad with vinaigrette, or another Mediterranean-inspired accompaniment to create a well-balanced dining experience.
Proper Storage Methods
Preserve any uneaten chicken portions in sealed containers within your refrigerator for a maximum of 96 hours. To maintain the delightful textural contrast, arrange chicken pieces in a single horizontal row (or insert parchment between layers if stacking). For optimal texture restoration, avoid microwave reheating—instead, utilize conventional oven or air fryer methods to revive the deliciously crunchy exterior.
Common Mistakes to Avoid– Crispy Parmesan chicken Breast
When preparing smothered chicken and rice , several typical mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:
Undercooked Rice or Chicken
A frequent issue is having either undercooked rice or chicken. Rice requires sufficient liquid and consistent heat for proper cooking. Without adequate moisture, rice may remain crunchy, and if the baking time is insufficient, chicken might remain undercooked. Ensure the rice is fully submerged in liquid before covering the dish with foil.
Utilizing a meat thermometer is recommended to confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), guaranteeing both safety and optimal texture.
Professional Cooking Insights in Crispy Parmesan chicken Breast
- For perfect caramelization, cut onions into fine, delicate slices—this significantly reduces cooking time and enhances their natural sweetness.
- When preparing chicken breasts, maintain them in larger, intact portions rather than dicing them. This preservation of surface area helps retain essential moisture throughout the cooking process.
- To achieve silky-smooth sauce consistency, incorporate refrigerated liquids (like milk or water) gradually into your flour mixture while continuously whisking. This temperature difference is key to creating a lump-free foundation.
- Temperature control remains crucial—keep your burner at moderate heat levels when simmering chicken in the sauce. Excessive heat quickly depletes moisture from both components, potentially resulting in tough meat and separated gravy.
- The quintessential companion to this rich dish is undoubtedly velvet-textured mashed potatoes, which beautifully absorb the flavorful gravy. Consider exploring my comprehensive mashed potato preparation guide to create the perfect complementary side for a memorable dining occasion.
Crispy Parmesan Chicken Breast
Ingredients
For the garlic-infused coating:
- Extra virgin olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Fresh garlic – 1 clove finely minced
For the savory crust mixture:
- Seasoned bread crumbs dry – 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese freshly grated – ⅔ cup
- Dried basil – 1 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about ½ inch, using a meat mallet or rolling pin for quicker, even cooking.
- Season both sides of the chicken with a light sprinkle of salt and black pepper.
- Set up three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: All-purpose flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: A mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip into the egg wash, and press into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture until fully coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add about 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the hot pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Flip carefully using tongs, pressing gently to ensure even browning. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Remove from the skillet once crispy and cooked through. Let rest for 2–3 minutes before slicing.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan, and enjoy with your favorite sides.
Notes
🥗 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 105mg |
| Sodium | 540mg |
| Total Carbs | 12g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Protein | 38g |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can this dish be prepared using a slow cooker?
Certainly, smothered chicken and rice can be adapted for a slow cooker. Begin by browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables as directed in the recipe. Move them to the slow cooker, adding the rice, soups, and broth, ensuring the rice is fully submerged. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to promote even cooking.
2. Can Leftovers Be Frozen?
Absolutely! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it into airtight containers for freezing, where it can last up to three months. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture. Heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until thoroughly warmed. For more meal prep tips, explore family meal prep suggestions.
3. What Modifications Create a More Nutritious Version?
Transform your dish into a healthier meal by selecting reduced-sodium soup varieties and broths. Replace traditional white rice with nutrient-dense alternatives such as brown rice or quinoa—remember to modify cooking duration and fluid measurements as needed. For protein, consider switching to leaner options like ground turkey or plant-based substitutes to reduce fat content while maintaining flavor integrity. Explore the nutritional benefits of chicken preparations for additional wellness insights.
4. Which Accompaniments Complement This Entrée?
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with oven-roasted seasonal vegetables, lightly steamed green beans, or a crisp mixed salad. Add textural contrast with artisanal bread or freshly baked cornbread to soak up the delicious sauce. For comprehensive meal planning ideas, investigate one-pot dinner concepts that streamline your cooking process.
5. Can Brown Rice Replace White Rice Successfully?
Absolutely—substitute with confidence by incorporating an additional cup of liquid and extending the cooking time by 15-20 minutes. Brown rice introduces a pleasant earthy flavor while delivering superior nutritional benefits. Ensure thorough cooking by testing the rice’s tenderness before serving to eliminate any undercooked portions.
6. How Far In Advance Can This Meal Be Prepared?
This convenient dish allows for preparation up to 24 hours before serving. Assemble all components, seal tightly with food-safe covering, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, follow your standard instructions but extend cooking time by approximately 10 minutes if transferring directly from refrigeration to oven.