Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, herb-crusted chicken breast that's so crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, it makes your dinner guests wonder if a professional chef secretly invaded your kitchen. This Parmesan Herb Crusted Chicken isn't just another boring weeknight meal – it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons mixed herbs (parsley, basil, oregano)
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a shallow mixing bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and mixed herbs. Mix thoroughly to create an even herb and cheese coating.
- In a separate bowl, crack the egg and whisk it until well beaten. Season the egg with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating adhere better.
- Season each chicken breast with salt and pepper on both sides before coating.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, ensuring complete coverage, then immediately transfer to the Parmesan-herb mixture. Press the coating firmly onto the chicken to create an even, thick crust.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and pair with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before coating to ensure maximum crispiness
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each chicken breast space to crisp evenly
- Use an instant-read meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to lock in those delicious juices
- For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder or red pepper flakes to your herb mixture
- Choose high-quality, fresh herbs for the most vibrant taste
- If the crust browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
