Print

Easy Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken – Best Baked Recipe

crispy parmesan crusted chicken - featured image
Print Recipe

This baked Parmesan crusted chicken is incredibly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, made with simple ingredients like mayonnaise, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s perfect for busy nights and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each, pounded to even thickness)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s or Hellmann’s recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. If using a wire rack, place it on the baking sheet and spray lightly with nonstick spray.
  2. Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
  3. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Mix well.
  5. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Spread a generous layer of the mayo mixture over the top and sides of each breast. Press each breast into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, coating the top and sides. Leave the bottom bare.
  6. Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, crust-side up, making sure they are not touching.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
  8. Let the chicken rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and squeeze a lemon wedge over the top if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip pounding the chicken to an even thickness for even cooking. Use room temperature ingredients for easier spreading. Press the crust firmly onto the mayo coating. Let the chicken rest after baking to keep it juicy. For extra crispy chicken, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy parmesan chicken, baked chicken, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, parmesan crusted chicken

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/easy-crispy-parmesan-crusted-chicken-best-baked-recipe/