This baked parmesan crusted chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and made with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy oven baked chicken recipe delivers big flavor without frying. Learn how to make parmesan crusted chicken that turns golden and crunchy every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy to make with simple steps
- Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
- Budget-friendly pantry ingredients
- Crispy without frying
- Easy to customize with herbs or spices
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the parmesan crust
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and lightly brush both sides with olive oil.
- In a shallow bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Press each chicken breast firmly into the parmesan mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Shallow mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or clean hands
Tips & Variations
- Extra crispy: Use panko breadcrumbs and lightly spray the chicken with oil before baking.
- Different cheese: Swap Parmesan for Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the crust crispy.
- Common mistake: Don’t overcrowd the pan space helps the coating crisp up.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad or Caesar salad
- Pair with roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes
- Add pasta or rice for a heartier meal
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving
Nutrition Facts
Per serving – approximate
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 42 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
(Nutrition values are estimates and may vary.)
Conclusion
This baked parmesan crusted chicken is a simple, reliable recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, it’s one of those meals you’ll come back to again and again. Save it, print it, or share it with someone who loves crispy chicken without the mess of frying.
FAQ
Can I freeze baked parmesan crusted chicken?
Yes. Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
How do I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken up to 8 hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge until ready to bake.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely. Asiago, Romano, or a Parmesan-mozzarella blend all work well.
Can I make this in the air fryer?
Yes. Cook at 190°C (375°F) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I keep the crust from falling off?
Press the coating firmly onto the chicken and avoid flipping during baking.