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–+ servings
Close-up of Zesty Parmesan Chicken with Crispy Edges, showing a golden-brown crust and moist white interior.

Zesty Parmesan Chicken with Crispy Edges

This recipe provides instructions for making Parmesan-crusted chicken breasts that bake up golden brown and crisp. It is a straightforward method for a flavorful weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts approximately 1.5 lbs
Breading
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 60 grams
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs 60 grams
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 50 grams
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs basil, oregano, or mixed
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
To Finish
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or use olive oil spray
  • Fresh parsley chopped, optional, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges optional, for serving

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil
  • meat mallet
  • Three shallow bowls
  • Tongs
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly coat with olive oil or spray.
  2. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to butterfly, then pound each to about 1/2 inch thickness using a meat mallet. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Arrange three shallow bowls: place flour in the first, beat eggs with milk in the second, and combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper in the third.
  4. Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring even coating on both sides.
  5. Place breaded cutlets on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly drizzle or spray with olive oil for better crispness.
  6. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if you choose.

Notes

This recipe works well for meal prepping. If you are making this ahead, let the chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or an air fryer to restore the crispy texture.

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