Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken
Crispy baked Parmesan chicken offers a flavorful, crunchy exterior with tender meat inside, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining cheesy and savory notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Skin the chicken and cut into pieces.
- Spray jelly roll pans or baking pans with vegetable cooking spray.
- Arrange the chicken pieces on the prepared pans and bake until crispy and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crispy texture, consider double-dipping the chicken pieces in the egg mixture and then the bread crumbs. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute. To add some heat, try mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the bread crumbs. Ensure the chicken is spaced well on the pan to allow for even baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crispy baked Parmesan chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Strawberry Pizza I for dessert, making it a delightful dinner choice. For a more substantial meal, consider adding creamy mashed potatoes or a light pasta dish as a side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover crispy baked Parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to keep the coating from becoming soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken contains roughly 1425 calories, with 13g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (44% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2115mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of whole chickens?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time since they may take less time to bake. Make sure to check for doneness with a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What if I want to make this dish gluten-free?
To make this crispy baked Parmesan chicken gluten-free, simply substitute the prepared bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or ground nuts. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers for a similar texture while maintaining the flavor.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken pieces and coat them with the Parmesan and bread crumbs earlier in the day. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy weeknight dinner.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).