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The Ultimate Crispy Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast (Juicy Inside, Ready in 40 Minutes)

Close-up of a perfectly cooked parmesan crusted chicken fillet showing the juicy white meat inside and golden brown crust.

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Make this easy Parmesan crusted chicken for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner. You get juicy chicken breasts with a perfectly crispy, golden crust using simple baking methods.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
  2. If the chicken breasts are very thick, pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness for consistent cooking.
  3. Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes.
  4. In the first dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
  5. In the second dish, whisk the eggs and water together.
  6. In the third dish, mix the Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
  7. Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  8. Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off.
  9. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the Panko mixture, ensuring both sides are completely coated.
  10. Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the tops lightly with olive oil.
  11. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crisp.
  12. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the chicken juicy.

Notes

  • For an extra crispy crust, you can briefly pan-sear the crusted chicken in hot oil for 1 minute per side before baking.
  • If you are planning your weekly meals, this recipe pairs well with simple sides, reducing the need for complex meal planning.
  • To make this a Lemon Parmesan Chicken, add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the Panko mixture.

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