Crispy Crusted Baked Chicken
Crispy baked chicken with a savory Parmesan and garlic potato crust, perfect for a flavorful family dinner or casual gathering with a crunchy, tender finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the chicken, pat dry, and set aside.
- Beat the egg and milk in a bowl.
- In another bowl, mix the potato flakes, garlic salt, and Parmesan cheese.
- Roll the chicken in the egg mixture, then coat with the potato flake mixture.
- Melt butter in a shallow baking pan.
- Roll the coated chicken in the melted butter and place them skin side up in the pan.
- Bake at 400°F for 45 to 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider adding crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs to the potato flake mixture. You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with any hard cheese like Pecorino for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, try using pre-seasoned frozen chicken pieces instead of whole chicken. Ensure even cooking by using chicken pieces of similar size.
Serving Suggestions
This crispy baked chicken pairs beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside Scalloped Winter Vegetables or a light vegetable medley. Drizzle some honey mustard or barbecue sauce on the side for dipping to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, avoid microwaving to maintain the crispiness of the crust.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crispy Crusted Baked Chicken contains roughly 785 calories, with 11g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 848mg per serving (37% 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 skinless chicken for this recipe?
While skinless chicken can be used, the skin helps to retain moisture and adds to the crispiness of the crust. If you prefer skinless chicken, consider marinating it beforehand to keep it juicy.
What should I do if the chicken is not cooking evenly?
If you notice uneven cooking, you can rotate the baking pan halfway through cooking. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring it's fully cooked.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken by coating it in the egg and potato mixture and then refrigerating it for several hours or overnight before baking. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).