Hearty Baked Chicken Breasts Encrusted with Parmesan and Herbs

Take your chicken from bland to boldly flavored with a quick and easy parsley Parmesan coating. Boneless chicken breasts are dredged in flour and parsley then coated in grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs and herbs. As the chicken bakes, the cheesy coating becomes crispy and golden, sealing in the juices. Served over pasta or rice, this satisfying chicken offers a hearty meal perfect for a cold night. Let’s discuss how to make this cheesy baked chicken sensation.

Choose Your Chicken Breasts

For best results, select an even thickness boneless, skinless chicken breast. Avoid thin cutlets which can dry out. Aim for breasts about 1 pound total to serve 2-3 people per breast.

Even Cooking

Trim any thin ends and pound to an even thickness if needed so breasts cook through evenly.

Bread with Flour and Parsley

Set up a breading station with flour seasoned with salt, pepper and parsley. Dredge chicken breasts in flour mixture first to help coating stick. Shake off excess.

Flour First

Lightly coating the chicken in flour before the Parmesan mixture helps everything cling and adhere.

Coat Thoroughly with Parmesan Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder and pepper. Press chicken into mixture to coat completely.

Press it On

Really press the chicken into the Parmesan coating so it’s completely encrusted for maximum flavor.

Bake Until Golden Brown

Arrange coated chicken on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 18-22 minutes until chicken is cooked through and coating is browned and crunchy.

Hot and Fast

The high heat helps the Parmesan mixture achieve a nice crispy texture as it bakes.

Serve with Pasta or Rice

These hearty Parmesan chicken breasts pair perfectly over pasta or rice to absorb any cheesy drippings. Add roasted veggies on the side for a complete meal.

5 Baking Tips

1. Use an even thickness of chicken breast

2. Flour first before Parmesan coating

3. Completely cover all sides in coating

4. Bake at a high temperature

5. Check internal temperature for doneness

Frequently Asked Questions

What flavored breadcrumbs can I use?

Any flavored variety like Italian, ranch, garlic, etc. will work great.

Can I use jarred Parmesan?

Yes, just look for good quality grated Parmesan, not powdered.

What other proteins work with this method?

Pork chops and fish fillets also pair well with the parmesan panko coating.

Is baking better than frying?

Baking helps the chicken stay nice and juicy inside with a crunchy exterior.

How should leftover chicken be stored?

Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days. Reheat gently.

In Summary

With just a few pantry ingredients like cheese, herbs and breadcrumbs, you can transform basic chicken breasts into a hearty Parmesan crusted dinner the whole family will devour. This is an easy way to add flavor and satisfaction to a weeknight meal.