A Crusted Chicken recipe is a fantastic way to add a crispy, flavorful exterior to your chicken while keeping it juicy on the inside. You can customize the crust with various seasonings and ingredients, but here’s a simple yet delicious recipe for Crispy Crusted Chicken:
Crispy Crusted Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for frying)
Directions:
- Prep the chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you want to bake the chicken (or use a skillet to pan-fry).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Make the crust mixture:
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the egg wash:
- In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until beaten.
- Coat the chicken:
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, making sure it’s coated, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure a good coating. Make sure both sides are well-covered with the crust.
- Cook the chicken:
Option 1: Pan-Fry
- Heat the olive oil or melted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until the crust is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Option 2: Bake
- Place the coated chicken breasts on a lightly greased baking sheet or a rack set over a baking sheet to allow air circulation. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy.
- Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it retain its juices and keeps it tender.
- Serve with your favorite sides like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- For extra crispy crust: Use Panko breadcrumbs, which create a lighter, crunchier texture. You can also double-coat the chicken for an even thicker crust (dip in egg and breadcrumbs twice).
- Flavor variations: You can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- Spicy variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix if you like a little heat.
This Crispy Crusted Chicken is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s perfect for dinner or meal prep. Enjoy the perfect balance of crunchy exterior and tender, juicy chicken!