Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Parmesan crusted chicken is a quick, cozy weeknight meal with crisp, flavorful coating and juicy centers. A simple butter and garlic wash keeps the chicken tender while the parm and breadcrumbs deliver a golden crunch. It pairs nicely with a bright herb garnish and a side of greens or roasted veggies.

Ingredients
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ⅔ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ground pepper
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
- Chopped parsley or basil, to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine the butter, olive oil, and garlic powder. Microwave for 30 seconds until melted, then whisk until very smooth.
- Step 3: In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Step 4: Butterfly the chicken breasts: place them on a cutting board and slice horizontally through the center to create two thinner pieces.
- Step 5: Dredge one chicken piece in the butter mixture, then transfer to the parmesan mixture. Press to adhere, flip to coat the other side, and place on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
- Step 6: Bake the chicken for 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F.
- Step 7: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra crispy crust, lightly press the coating onto the chicken and let it rest on the sheet for a few minutes before baking.
- Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a subtle kick.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon to brighten flavors.
Storage
Chopped leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or skillet until warmed through and the crust is crisp again.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I bake the chicken without butter?
Yes, you can substitute with olive oil only, but the butter helps flavor and helps the crust brown nicely.
Can this recipe be made with chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless skinless thighs can be used. They may take a few minutes longer to reach 165°F, so check for doneness with a thermometer.
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Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Juicy chicken cutlets coated in a crisp parmesan crust, baked to golden perfection with a butter-garlic infusion for rich flavor and a simple weeknight-friendly method.
Ingredients
Butter and Olive Oil Mixture
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Parmesan Coating
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ⅔ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ground pepper
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley or basil to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Make butter mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the butter, olive oil, and garlic powder. Microwave for 30 seconds or until butter melts, then whisk until smooth.
- Prepare parmesan coating: In a second shallow bowl, stir together the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Butterfly the chicken: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. Slice horizontally through the center to create two thinner cutlets (like a book), being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Dredge chicken: Dredge one piece of chicken through the butter mixture, letting excess drip off. Transfer to the parmesan mixture and press to adhere, then flip to coat the other side. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
- Bake: Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Tip: For extra crispiness, spray the top of the coated chicken lightly with cooking spray before baking.
- To save time, you can pound the chicken breasts to even thickness before breading.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: parmesan crusted chicken, baked chicken, garlic butter chicken, breaded chicken, weeknight dinner

