Chef Mitchell - Professional Chef
👨‍🍳 Professional Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary Institute Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"Growing up, my family often gathered around the table for delicious home-cooked meals. This Parmesan-crusted chicken became a staple, representing comfort and connection. I've refined the recipe over the years, adding fresh herbs to elevate the flavors. Now, I love sharing it with my own family, creating new memories around the dinner table."

As a professional chef, I've spent over a decade perfecting my culinary skills across various cuisines. My passion lies in creating approachable dishes that bring people together. I believe in using fresh ingredients and simple techniques to craft meals that everyone can enjoy.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
A beautifully plated crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken garnished with herbs and lemon wedges, served on a rustic wooden table.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Crispy Herb-Infused Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Its crispy exterior is achieved through a simple yet effective breading technique, while the fresh herbs bring a vibrant note that complements the savory Parmesan. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also visually appealing, making it an excellent choice for entertaining.

To ensure your chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider using fresh herbs rather than dried for a more robust flavor. Choosing high-quality Parmesan cheese will also make a significant difference in taste. Pairing the chicken with a squeeze of lemon elevates the dish, balancing the richness and enhancing the overall experience.

💡 Professional Tip

For maximum crispiness, allow the coated chicken to rest for about 10 minutes before baking. This helps the breading adhere better during cooking, resulting in a crunchier crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the breading stage in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate the coated chicken for a few hours or overnight. When ready to bake, bring the chicken to room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Absolutely! While Parmesan is recommended for its flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even cheddar for a different taste. Just be mindful that the melting properties may vary.

Yes, cooking in an air fryer is a great alternative! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. Keep an eye on it as cooking times can vary by model.

While fresh herbs are preferred for their vibrant flavor, you can substitute with dried herbs if necessary. Use about one-third of the amount stated in the recipe, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Add them to the breadcrumbs for a flavorful twist.

To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, the juices should run clear when pierced with a knife, and the chicken should be golden brown on the outside.

This chicken pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a light pasta dish or a side of garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Definitely! Feel free to mix and match herbs based on your preference. Basil, oregano, or even dill could work well. Just keep in mind that stronger herbs might overpower the dish, so use them judiciously.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes, to maintain crispiness.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Breading Not Sticking

Problem: The breading is falling off the chicken during cooking.

Solution: Ensure the chicken is dry before breading. Lightly pressing the breadcrumbs into the chicken can also help them adhere better. Consider letting the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before baking.

✅

Chicken Is Dry

Problem: The chicken turns out dry after baking.

Solution: To prevent dryness, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Marinating the chicken beforehand or brining it can also help retain moisture.

✅

Uneven Cooking

Problem: Parts of the chicken are overcooked while others are undercooked.

Prevention: Try to use chicken breasts of similar thickness for even cooking. If using thicker pieces, consider butterflying them or pounding them to an even thickness.

✅

Breading Is Soggy

Problem: The breading does not turn out crispy.

Recovery: Ensure the chicken is not overcrowded on the baking sheet. Proper spacing allows hot air to circulate, leading to a crispier crust. Baking on a wire rack over a baking sheet can also enhance airflow.

✅

Too Much Salt

Problem: The chicken is overly salty.

Prevention: If possible, balance the flavor with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or serve it with a side dish that has a neutral flavor, like rice or steamed vegetables.

✅

Flavor Balance Issues

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: To cut down on saltiness, serve with a side of unsalted grains or vegetables to help absorb the flavor.

Bland: If the chicken is bland, consider adding more spices to the breadcrumb mixture next time, or serve with a flavorful sauce or dipping condiment.

A collection of fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and chicken breasts ready for cooking.

Quality Ingredients Make a Difference

Choosing high-quality ingredients is crucial for the success of this dish. Fresh herbs and quality Parmesan add depth and complexity to the flavor, while the chicken's quality ensures tenderness and juiciness. Whenever possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken for enhanced taste and ethical sourcing.

Preparation matters as well; for instance, grating your own Parmesan instead of using pre-grated cheese can result in a fresher, more robust flavor. Ensure your herbs are vibrant and fragrant to maximize their impact in the dish. Investing in good-quality breadcrumbs will also significantly affect the final texture.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Parmesan Cheese: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Pre-packaged versions often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
  • Chicken Breasts: Look for chicken breasts that are plump and have a pink hue. Avoid those with a grayish tint as they may not be fresh.
  • Fresh Herbs: Choose herbs that are vibrant and fragrant. If you can, buy them from a farmers' market or grow your own for the freshest taste.
The process of breading chicken with Parmesan and herbs, showcasing the crispy coating before baking.

Mastering the Breading Technique

The key to achieving a perfectly crispy chicken lies in the breading process. Each layer plays a vital role: the flour helps the egg adhere, while the egg binds the breadcrumbs and cheese. This creates a harmonious mixture that crisps up beautifully in the oven.

For best results, ensure even coverage by pressing the breading mixture firmly onto the chicken. Allowing the chicken to rest after breading creates a better texture by letting the coating adhere. Baking on a wire rack also promotes an even crispness, preventing any sogginess.

Crispy Oven-Baking

Baking chicken in the oven allows for even cooking without the need for excessive oil, resulting in a healthier dish. Utilizing high heat ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist, making it a perfect method for this Parmesan-crusted recipe.

Crispy Herb-Infused Parmesan-Crusted Chicken

Prep 15 min
Cook 25 min
Serves 4 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
    Choose even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Freshly grated offers superior flavor and texture.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
    For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    Dusting the chicken with flour helps the egg mixture stick.
  • 2 large eggs
    Whisked until well combined for an even coating.

For the Coating

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
    Enhances flavor and adds color.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
    Complements the chicken beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    Adds depth to the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    Brightens the overall taste.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
    For a slightly smoky flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    Freshly ground is best for a robust flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    Adjust to taste, especially if using salted Parmesan.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    For drizzling before baking to aid crispiness.
  • 1 lemon (juiced)
    Adds brightness and balances the richness of the cheese.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
    For a touch of heat.

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken Breasts

    Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the coating adhere better. If the breasts are thick, consider butterflying them for even cooking.

  2. Set Up Dredging Stations

    In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. This creates a smooth workflow for coating the chicken.

  3. Coat the Chicken

    Dredge each chicken breast in flour, tapping off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.

  4. Prepare Baking Sheet

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

  5. Arrange Chicken for Baking

    Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil to enhance browning and crispiness.

  6. Bake the Chicken

    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. An internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) ensures safety.

  7. Finish with Lemon Juice

    Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright flavor boost.

  8. Serve and Enjoy

    Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides, such as a light salad or roasted vegetables.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Variations

Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients.