Parmesan Crusted Chicken Dinner: A Delicious and Easy Recipe to Impress Your Guests

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Dinner is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese and tender chicken, creating a meal that is both satisfying and indulgent. As I prepared this recipe, I couldn’t help but think about how this dish has roots in Italian cuisine, where cheese plays a pivotal role in enhancing the taste of various meals. The crispy, golden crust not only adds a wonderful texture but also elevates the overall dining experience, making it a favorite among families and friends alike.

People love this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Dinner for its incredible taste and convenience. It’s a dish that can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of savory Parmesan and juicy chicken creates a mouthwatering flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether served with a side of pasta, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables, this dish is sure to impress. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and get that lovely golden crust. 2. **Prepare the Chicken Breasts**: Take the chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy. 3. **Season the Chicken**: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the chicken.

Preparing the Breading Mixture

4. **Set Up Your Breading Station**: In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, whisk together the eggs and Dijon mustard until well combined. In the second bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The third bowl will remain empty for now. 5. **Coat the Chicken**: Take one chicken breast and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess drip off before transferring it to the breadcrumb mixture. Press the chicken into the breadcrumbs, making sure to coat it thoroughly on both sides. Place the breaded chicken on a plate. Repeat this process for all chicken breasts.

Cooking the Chicken

6. **Heat the Olive Oil**: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough that it shimmers but not smoking. 7. **Sear the Chicken**: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a beautiful crust and locks in moisture. 8. **Transfer to the Oven**: After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Preparing the Side Dishes

While the chicken is baking, you can prepare some delicious sides to complement your Parmesan Crusted Chicken. 9. **Roasted Vegetables**: – Preheat another oven to 400°F (200°C) if you have space, or you can roast them alongside the chicken. – Chop your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots into bite-sized pieces. – Toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. – Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. 10. **Garlic Mashed Potatoes**: – Peel and chop 2 pounds of potatoes into chunks. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. – Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add 4 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 cup of milk, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. – Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Dish

11. **Check the Chicken**: Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. 12. **Plate the Dish**: On a large serving platter, arrange the roasted vegetables and a generous scoop of garlic mashed potatoes. Place the Parmesan crusted chicken on top, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. 13. **Serve with Lemon Wedges**: Serve the dish with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful Parmesan Crusted Chicken Dinner recipe, I can’t stress enough how it’s a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight meals. The crispy, cheesy crust combined with the tender chicken creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly flavorful. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a fresh garden salad or some roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the chicken. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the crust, or even swapping out the chicken for eggplant or tofu for a vegetarian twist. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Dinner a try. I’d love to hear about your experience, so don’t forget to share your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with! Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, and I can’t wait to see how you make this recipe your own. Happy cooking! Print