Parmesan crusted chicken has become a popular dish due to its savory, crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. This dish combines the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese with the satisfying crunch of a well-seasoned breadcrumb coating. So, what exactly goes into making this delectable meal? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the key ingredients, their roles, and how each component contributes to the overall taste and texture of Parmesan crusted chicken. By the end of this article, you will understand how to prepare this dish and why it has earned its spot on many dinner tables.
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What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Parmesan crusted chicken involves coating chicken breasts with a mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then baking or frying to achieve a crispy, golden crust. This dish is known for its simple yet delicious flavor profile, achieved through a blend of just a few key ingredients.
The core components include:
Chicken breasts
Parmesan cheese
Breadcrumbs
Eggs (for binding)
Herbs and spices
Let’s delve into each ingredient to understand its role in creating this flavorful dish.
Key Ingredients in Parmesan Crusted Chicken
1. Chicken Breasts
Chicken breasts serve as the primary ingredient in Parmesan crusted chicken. They provide a lean, protein-rich base that pairs beautifully with the crispy coating.
Why Chicken Breasts?
Lean Protein Source: Chicken breasts offer low fat and high protein, making them a healthy choice for this dish.
Tender Texture: When cooked properly, chicken breasts stay moist and tender, offering a great contrast to the crunchy crust.
Versatility: Chicken breasts absorb flavors from seasonings and marinades easily, making them ideal for Parmesan crusted chicken.
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This step ensures uniform cooking and helps the coating adhere better.
2. Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese is the star ingredient that gives the dish its distinctive flavor and texture. It is a hard, aged cheese with a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the taste of the chicken.
Benefits of Parmesan Cheese:
Flavor: Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, salty taste that complements the mildness of chicken.
Texture: When baked, Parmesan cheese forms a crispy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
Nutritional Value: Parmesan cheese provides calcium and protein, contributing to the dish’s nutritional profile.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best results. Unlike pre-shredded cheese, freshly grated cheese melts more evenly and creates a superior crust.
3. Breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs form the base of the crust, providing a crunchy texture that contrasts with the tender chicken. They also help bind the cheese to the chicken.
Types of Breadcrumbs:
Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs are lighter and crunchier, resulting in a crispier texture.
Regular Breadcrumbs: Standard breadcrumbs are denser and may produce a slightly less crunchy crust.
Breadcrumbs are often seasoned with herbs and spices to enhance their flavor and complement the Parmesan cheese.
4. Eggs
Eggs act as a binding agent in Parmesan crusted chicken. They help the cheese and breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken, ensuring that the coating stays intact during cooking.
Role of Eggs:
Binding: Eggs create a sticky surface on the chicken, allowing the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs to stick.
Moisture: Eggs add moisture to the coating, preventing it from becoming too dry during baking or frying.
5. Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices add flavor to the breadcrumbs and enhance the crust. Common additions include garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and paprika.
Common Herbs and Spices:
Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth to the crust.
Onion Powder: Complements the garlic powder and adds sweetness.
Dried Oregano: Provides an Italian flavor that pairs well with Parmesan cheese.
Paprika: Adds a touch of color and mild heat.
Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences and the overall flavor profile you wish to achieve.
How to Prepare Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Preparing Parmesan crusted chicken involves several steps to ensure that the chicken is perfectly coated and cooked. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious dish:
1. Preparing the Chicken
Pound the Chicken: Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This step helps achieve a crispy crust without overcooking the meat.
Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This basic seasoning adds flavor to the meat before applying the main coating.
2. Preparing the Coating
Prepare the Egg Wash: In a shallow bowl, beat a few eggs. This will be used to coat the chicken and help the breadcrumbs stick.
Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture: In another shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and paprika. Mix well to ensure the seasonings distribute evenly.
3. Coating the Chicken
Dredge the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg wash, making sure it is fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off.
Coat with Breadcrumbs: Transfer the chicken to the breadcrumb mixture and press gently to ensure an even coating. The breadcrumbs should adhere well to the egg-coated chicken.
4. Cooking the Chicken
Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased rack. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy.
Frying: Heat a couple of tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is crispy and golden.
5. Serving the Chicken
Resting: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This step ensures that the chicken remains moist.
Serving Suggestions: Parmesan crusted chicken pairs well with various sides, such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side of marinara sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.
Variations and Tips
Variations:
Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to customize the flavor of the crust.
Cheese Variations: Try using a combination of Parmesan and other cheeses, such as mozzarella or Asiago, for a unique twist.
Tips:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and homemade breadcrumbs yield the best results.
Ensure Even Coating: Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the egg wash and breadcrumbs for a consistent crust.
Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts and your oven. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Nutritional Information
Parmesan crusted chicken provides essential nutrients. Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories
Protein: 30-35 grams
Fat: 15-20 grams
Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
This dish offers a good balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, making it a hearty choice for dinner. Adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs by modifying the amount of cheese or breadcrumbs used.
Pairing Ideas
Side Dishes:
Roasted Vegetables: Pair with a medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini for a nutritious and colorful side.
Pasta: Serve with a simple pasta dish, such as garlic and olive oil pasta or a light tomato sauce.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of Parmesan crusted chicken.
Sauces:
Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing, marinara sauce adds a tangy contrast to the crispy chicken.
Lemon Aioli: For a zesty twist, serve with a lemon aioli sauce.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Parmesan crusted chicken is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese with a crispy breadcrumb coating. Made from simple ingredients like chicken breasts, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and eggs, this dish offers a satisfying and nutritious meal. Whether you choose to bake or fry the chicken, the result is a golden, crunchy exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior.
By understanding the components and following the preparation steps outlined in this guide, you can create a delicious Parmesan crusted chicken that is sure to please. Enjoy this versatile dish with your favorite sides and sauces for a well-rounded and enjoyable dining experience.
