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Crispy Herb-Crusted Baked Parmesan Chicken

crispy herb-crusted baked parmesan chicken - featured image

A quick and easy baked chicken recipe featuring a crispy herb and parmesan crust that delivers juicy, tender chicken with a golden, crunchy exterior. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 75 grams)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (about 100 grams), preferably Japanese-style
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary), finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or inside a zip-top bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound each breast to about ½ inch thickness (about 1.3 cm).
  2. In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan, chopped herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon zest if using. Stir well.
  3. In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
  4. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly. Place coated breasts on a plate or tray.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. If available, place a wire rack on top.
  6. Place coated chicken breasts on the wire rack or directly on the baking sheet. Lightly drizzle or brush olive oil over the crust.
  7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through if not using a rack, until crust is golden brown and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best crust texture. Pounding chicken breasts to even thickness ensures even cooking and juiciness. Drizzling olive oil before baking helps achieve a golden crust. Use a wire rack to prevent sogginess or flip chicken halfway through baking if no rack is available. Tent with foil if crust browns too quickly. For dairy-free, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast and eggs with flaxseed or chia egg. For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken, parmesan chicken, crispy chicken, herb crusted chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, panko chicken, gluten-free option