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Best Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast Recipe (Easy!)

crispy parmesan crusted chicken breast - featured image

This crispy baked parmesan crusted chicken breast delivers a crunchy, golden crust without needing a deep fryer or a vat of oil. It’s a family favorite that’s ready in under 30 minutes and uses simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and spray it lightly with cooking spray.
  2. Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a rolling pin or the flat side of a meat mallet to gently pound them to an even thickness—about ½ inch thick. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne if using. In a second small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
  4. Using a brush or your fingers, spread a thin, even layer of the mayonnaise mixture over each chicken breast. Then press each breast into the panko-parmesan mixture, coating both sides evenly. Shake off any excess.
  5. Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared wire rack, leaving a little space between each piece. Drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil over the top of each breast.
  6. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part and the crust is deep golden brown.
  7. Let the chicken rest on the rack for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don’t crowd the pan; use two pans if needed. For best results, use panko breadcrumbs and a wire rack. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy parmesan crusted chicken, baked chicken breast, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, crispy chicken