Mix until a thick, spreadable paste forms.
3. Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish.
Spread a generous layer of the Parmesan mixture over the top of each breast.
For extra crispiness, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the creamy Parmesan layer.
4. Bake
Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 25–30 minutes, depending on thickness.
The chicken should be:
✔ Fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C)
✔ Golden brown on top
✔ Bubbling slightly around the edges
Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end if you want an extra crispy top.
5. Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Top with:
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Fresh parsley
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A squeeze of lemon
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More grated Parmesan
🍽 What to Serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This dish is amazingly versatile. Try pairing it with:
Easy Sides
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Buttered noodles
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Creamy Alfredo pasta
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Roasted green beans
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Steamed broccoli
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Caesar salad
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Garlic bread
Low-Carb Options
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Cauliflower mash
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Zucchini noodles
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Roasted asparagus
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Mixed greens salad
This chicken is hearty enough to be the star of the plate but flexible enough to match dozens of sides.
💡 Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
✔ Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that reduce melting quality.
✔ Pound chicken to even thickness
This ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
✔ Don’t skip the mayo/sour cream
This creates:
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Moisture
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Creaminess
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Glue for the crust
✔ Add panko if you want crunch
The recipe works without it, but panko elevates the texture.
✔ Broil at the end
This gives that signature golden crust seen in your image.
🔄 Recipe Variations
1. Garlic Herb Version
Add chopped rosemary, thyme, or basil for a deeper herb flavor.
2. Spicy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Mix in:
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½ tsp cayenne pepper
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1 tsp chili flakes
3. Keto-Friendly
Skip panko and rely purely on Parmesan for a crispy, low-carb crust.
4. Ranch Parmesan Chicken
Add 1 tbsp ranch seasoning to the Parmesan mixture—amazing!
5. Air Fryer Method
Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze
Freeze individually wrapped breasts for up to 2 months.
Reheat
For best results:
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Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes
-
Air fryer: 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes
Avoid microwaving; it can soften the crust.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs stay very juicy. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
Yes—assemble the chicken and coating, refrigerate up to 24 hours, and bake when ready.
Can I replace mayo with Greek yogurt?
Yes! It makes the dish slightly tangier but still delicious and moist.
Why is my crust not browning?
Your oven may run cool—simply broil for 2–3 minutes.
⭐ Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken is everything a home-cooked dinner should be—rich, flavorful, comforting, and unbelievably simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform basic chicken breasts into a golden, cheese-encrusted masterpiece worthy of any restaurant menu.
It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to save, repeat, and share with everyone you know!
