If you're looking to enhance your weeknight dinners with something simple yet delicious, you might want to contemplate trying out some Parmesan chicken recipes. From a classic baked version that boasts a crispy, cheesy crust to juicy grilled options perfect for summer barbecues, there's a dish for every occasion. You'll find that each recipe not only delivers on taste but also offers a degree of customization to suit your preferences. So, which of these five standout recipes will you whip up first? The answer might surprise you.
Classic Baked Parmesan Chicken
Classic Baked Parmesan Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, cheesy crust makes for a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love. This recipe requires minimal prep time and can be served with a side of vegetables, salad, or pasta for a complete dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and olive oil until well combined.
In another bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to guarantee an even coating.
Place the coated chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a little lemon juice and olive oil for about 30 minutes before breading.
Additionally, using panko breadcrumbs can give the dish an even crunchier texture.
If you want to add some color and nutrition, feel free to toss some vegetables on the baking sheet alongside the chicken for a one-pan meal.
Finally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to make certain it remains juicy and tender when you cut into it.
Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for both dinner and as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
These tender chicken strips are coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then baked or fried until golden brown. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also make for a great option for picky eaters or a fun family meal.
Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful crunch in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if baking)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you're baking.
In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. In another shallow dish, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat them in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to guarantee the coating sticks.
If baking, place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
If frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken tenders for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they're crispy and fully cooked.
Extra Tips:
For an even crispier texture, consider double-dipping the chicken tenders in the egg and breadcrumb mixture.
You can also try adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.
If you want to make them healthier, baking is a great option, but make sure they're spread out on the baking sheet to avoid steaming.
Serve with a side of marinara sauce, ranch, or honey mustard for dipping, and enjoy!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich and flavorful garlic and Parmesan sauce. This one-pan meal isn't only easy to prepare but also perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
With the addition of fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese, this recipe brings out the best in simple ingredients while delivering a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce, and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a couple of hours before cooking.
You can also add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the skillet for a more complete meal. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce.
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet over pasta or rice to soak up all that delicious sauce, and don't forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!
Parmesan Crusted Grilled Chicken
Parmesan Crusted Grilled Chicken is a delicious and easy dish that combines the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese with tender, juicy chicken breasts. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, and it's sure to impress your family and friends.
The crispy Parmesan crust adds a delightful texture and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Whether served with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, this grilled chicken dish is both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In another dish, pour the beaten egg. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, making sure it's well-coated, then dredge it in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to stick the crust to the chicken.
Drizzle olive oil over the coated chicken breasts and place them on the grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Extra Tips:
To guarantee that your chicken stays moist and tender, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before breading. This will also improve the flavor of the chicken.
Additionally, keep an eye on the grill temperature; if it's too hot, the crust may burn before the chicken is fully cooked. Using a meat thermometer can help you check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Finally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, making sure each bite is juicy and flavorful.
One-Pan Parmesan Chicken and Veggies
One-Pan Parmesan Chicken and Veggies is a simple yet delicious meal that combines tender chicken breasts with a colorful array of vegetables, all baked to perfection in one convenient dish.
This recipe not only minimizes cleanup but also infuses the chicken and veggies with rich Parmesan flavor, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a satisfying and nutritious meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken breasts and coat them evenly with the cheese mixture.
In a large baking dish, arrange the mixed vegetables and drizzle with olive oil, tossing to coat.
Place the coated chicken breasts on top of the vegetables and sprinkle any remaining cheese mixture over the chicken.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Extra Tips:
For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian herbs for at least 30 minutes before coating it with the cheese mixture.
You can also customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what's in season; just make sure they're cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
If you prefer a crispy topping, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to achieve that golden, crunchy finish.
Enjoy your meal with a side of pasta or a fresh salad for a well-rounded dining experience!