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Crispy Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Easy 30-Min Recipe

crispy baked parmesan crusted chicken - featured image

This crispy baked Parmesan crusted chicken breast is golden, craggy, and packed with salty, nutty Parmesan flavor. The inside stays juicy and tender, and the whole thing comes together in about thirty minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet and spray it lightly with cooking spray. If not using a rack, line the sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Place chicken breasts on a cutting board. Cover with plastic wrap and gently pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 to 3/4 inch. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Brush both sides of each breast with olive oil. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
  4. Set up a coating station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. In the second, whisk together the egg, Dijon mustard, and water until smooth. In the third, combine the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and cayenne (if using). Mix well.
  5. Working with one piece at a time, dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Press firmly into the Parmesan-panko mixture, coating all sides.
  6. Transfer the coated chicken to the prepared wire rack, leaving space between pieces.
  7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is deep golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest on the rack for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Serve immediately, sliced against the grain if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip the flour step—it helps the egg wash stick. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best crust. Let the chicken come to room temperature before baking for even cooking. Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken, Parmesan crusted chicken, easy chicken recipe, 30-minute dinner, baked chicken breast