Parmesan Crusted Chicken {3 Ingredients!}
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Are you looking for a quick and tasty chicken dinner? Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the answer! This yummy dish needs just 3 ingredients and 5 minutes to prep. You can have a tasty meal on the table in about 35 minutes.
The recipe is super easy. You mix Parmesan cheese with Italian dressing mix, coat the chicken, and bake it. The result is crispy, cheesy chicken that’s sure to please everyone at your table. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something good but don’t have much time to cook.
Exact Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this super easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 packets (1 ounce each) Italian salad dressing mix
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)
That’s it! Just three simple ingredients for a tasty main dish.
You’ll also want to have cooking spray on hand to prep your baking dish. A 2-quart cast iron pan works great, but any baking dish that fits your chicken will do.
Remember to choose high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor. Fresh grated is ideal, but pre-grated works too if you’re short on time.
For the chicken, try to pick breasts that are similar in size. This helps them cook evenly. If your breasts are very thick, you might want to pound them to an even thickness.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and give it a quick spray with cooking oil.
Mix the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian dressing mix in a large bag or bowl. This is your coating mixture.
Add the chicken breasts to the mixture. Shake or toss until they’re well coated.
Place the coated chicken in your prepared dish. Press any extra cheese mix on top of each piece.
Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) inside.
Check that the crust is golden and crispy. If it’s not quite there, you can broil for a minute or two.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy chicken! It’s great with a side salad or some roasted veggies.
Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations
You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your taste or use what’s in your pantry. Here are some tasty options:
Cheese swaps:
- Grated Romano cheese
- Shredded mozzarella
- Asiago cheese
Seasoning alternatives:
- Ranch dressing mix
- Taco seasoning
- Homemade Italian blend (oregano, basil, garlic powder)
Try adding panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Mix them with the cheese before coating the chicken.
For a healthier version, use an air fryer. Cook at 380°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Want more flavor? Brush the chicken with Dijon mustard before coating it in the cheese mixture.
You can also use this coating on:
- Pork chops
- Fish fillets
- Zucchini slices (for a veggie option)
For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. Experiment and find your favorite combo!
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Pat your chicken dry before coating it with the cheese mixture. This helps the Parmesan stick better and creates a crispier crust.
For extra crunch, try adding some breadcrumbs to your Parmesan mixture. This gives the chicken an even more satisfying texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking. Give each piece of chicken some space to ensure even browning and crispiness.
Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is done. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Then place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When reheating, use the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispy texture. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the coating soggy.
For a make-ahead option, prep the chicken and coat it with the Parmesan mixture. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Serve your Parmesan crusted chicken with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.