Create a restaurant-style Parmesan crusted chicken that is crispy on the outside and juicy inside. This simple baked recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and uses common ingredients for maximum flavor.
Author:mayathompson
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:30 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
1 large egg
2 tablespoons water
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the chicken: If the chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking.
Set up a three-stage breading station. In the first shallow dish, whisk the egg and water together. In the second dish, mix the flour, salt, and pepper. In the third dish, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and oregano.
Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off.
Finally, press the chicken firmly into the Panko-Parmesan mixture, coating both sides completely. Press the crust onto the chicken to help it adhere.
Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush the tops with olive oil or melted butter.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with lemon butter sauce or creamy garlic sauce if desired.
Notes
For an air fryer method: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray. Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Using mayonnaise instead of egg wash helps the crust stick firmly and adds moisture.
Panko breadcrumbs provide a superior crunch compared to standard breadcrumbs.