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Crispy Baked Italian Parmesan Chicken

A quick and delicious chicken dinner with a crispy parmesan crust and Italian herbs.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 37 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 1.5 pounds; pound to 1/2 inch thickness if needed
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs Panko for extra crispiness; can swap with crushed cornflakes
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese use Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 large eggs beaten with 1 tablespoon water; can use buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil plus extra for drizzling before baking
  • 1 piece lemon zested and juiced
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
  • a pinch red pepper flakes for warmth (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set a wire rack on top if you have one.
  2. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and water until uniform. In a second shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
  3. Pat the chicken dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Dip each breast first into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Then press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated, repeating for a thicker crust if desired.
  4. Place the breaded breasts on the rack or parchment-lined sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
Baking
  1. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping once halfway through if not using a rack, until golden and crisp and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
  2. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. Squeeze fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley right before serving.

Notes

Make-ahead friendly: bread the chicken early and bake just before serving. For crispy results, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.