Introduction
If you’re looking for a crispy, golden, and flavorful chicken dish, you’ve come to the right place! This Crispy Oven Parmesan Chicken is an absolute game-changer. It has the perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, thanks to a delicious Parmesan crust made with panko and cornflake crumbs. Best of all, it’s baked instead of fried, making it a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor or texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Golden: The combination of panko, cornflakes, and Parmesan creates an irresistibly crunchy crust.
- Healthier Alternative: Baking the chicken means you can enjoy it guilt-free without deep-frying.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples for a fuss-free yet gourmet meal.
- Versatile: Serve it with a fresh salad, over pasta, or with roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup cornflake crumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Stations
- Place the flour in a shallow dish.
- In a second dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third dish, mix together the panko bread crumbs, cornflake crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s well-coated.
- Press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides.
Step 4: Bake to Crispy Perfection
- Arrange the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray the tops with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Pair with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.
Tips for the Best Crispy Oven Parmesan Chicken
- Pound the Chicken Evenly: Ensuring uniform thickness helps it cook evenly and prevents dryness.
- Don’t Skip the Cornflakes: They add extra crunch that regular breadcrumbs alone can’t achieve.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: It melts better and adds a richer flavor compared to pre-packaged varieties.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before cutting helps retain its juices.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work just as well, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs take longer to cook.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I freeze Crispy Oven Parmesan Chicken?
Absolutely! Freeze the breaded but uncooked chicken on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
This chicken pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh Caesar salad.
5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko and cornflakes.
Conclusion
This Crispy Oven Parmesan Chicken is the perfect way to enjoy a healthy, delicious, and crispy chicken dish without deep-frying. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Try it today and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness in every bite!