Introduction

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a versatile dish that has captured the hearts of food lovers worldwide. Its appeal lies in the simplicity of its ingredients and the complexity of its flavors. A perfect Parmesan crust promises a satisfying crunch, leading to the tender chicken within, making every bite a delightful experience.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crispiness)
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up Dredging Stations: Create a dredging station with three shallow dishes. Place flour in the first dish. Beat the eggs in the second dish. Mix the breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese in the third dish. Season each dish with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Dredge the Chicken: Coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip in beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press the mixture onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
4. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown on each side and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.

Parmesan Herb Crusted Chicken

Additional Ingredients for Herb Mixture

• 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (or a mixture of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley for garnish

Modifications to Steps

• Enhance the Breadcrumb Mixture: To the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, add 1 tablespoon of dried Italian herbs, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). This will infuse the crust with herbaceous flavors and a bit of heat.
• Garnish Before Serving: Once the chicken is cooked and ready to serve, sprinkle dried parsley on top for an added pop of color and a fresh herb taste.

By incorporating these herbs into the crust and finishing with a sprinkle of parsley, you transform the simple Parmesan Crusted Chicken into a more aromatic and flavorful Parmesan Herb Crusted Chicken. This version brings a delightful herbaceous profile to the dish, making it even more enjoyable. Enjoy your enhanced, flavorful chicken!

Hellmann’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Using Hellmann’s mayonnaise to make Parmesan Herb Crusted Chicken introduces a unique twist to the traditional breadcrumb and parmesan coating. The mayonnaise not only helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken, creating a deliciously crispy exterior, but it also locks in moisture, ensuring the chicken stays juicy and flavorful during cooking. The creamy texture of Hellmann’s mayonnaise and its blend of spices enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish, making it a simple yet effective way to elevate your chicken recipe.

Hellmann’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup Hellmann’s or Best Foods Real Mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 teaspoons Italian seasoned dry bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or any herbs of your choice)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a bit of oil.
2. Prepare the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are very thick, lightly pound them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Mix Mayonnaise and Parmesan: In a bowl, combine Hellmann’s mayonnaise with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Mix well until you have a smooth paste.
4. Apply the Mixture: Spread the Hellmann’s and Parmesan mixture over each chicken breast, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the tops with the Italian seasoned bread crumbs for added texture and flavor.
5. Bake: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
6. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken will be juicy and flavorful.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

Using mayo in Parmesan-crusted chicken is a fantastic culinary technique that offers several benefits, especially in terms of moisture and flavor. 

Benefits of Using Mayo for Moisture and Flavor

• Moisture Retention: Mayo is made primarily of oil and egg yolks, which help to lock in the chicken’s natural juices during the cooking process. This means the chicken stays more moist and tender compared to using dry breading alone.
• Flavor Enhancement: The fat content in mayo not only contributes to a juicy bite but also serves as a medium to dissolve and disperse fat-soluble flavor compounds from any added herbs and spices. This helps the flavors meld better with the chicken.
• Crispier Crust: Mayo can create a beautifully crisp and golden crust. As it cooks, the oil in the mayo helps to fry the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and any seasonings you add, resulting in a more flavorful and crispy coating than if you were to use egg wash alone.

Tips for the Perfect Mayo Crust

• Even Application: Use a brush or spoon to spread the mayo evenly over the chicken. This ensures that every inch of the chicken is moist and flavorful, and it helps the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture stick better.
• Ratio Matters: Find the right balance between mayo, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Too much mayo can make the crust soggy, while not enough may not provide the desired moisture and flavor. A good starting point is a thin layer of mayo, enough to cover the chicken but not so much that it pools around it.
• Season Your Mayo: Incorporate herbs, spices, or garlic powder into the mayo before spreading it on the chicken. This boosts the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Use High Heat: Cook your Parmesan-crusted chicken at a higher oven temperature. This helps the mayo and Parmesan crust to become crispier while keeping the inside of the chicken tender and juicy.
• Broil for the Finish: For an extra golden and crispy crust, consider broiling the chicken for a minute or two at the end of the cooking time. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Air Fryer Method

Cooking Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an air fryer not only streamlines the process but also offers unique benefits compared to traditional oven baking. Here’s how to adjust your method for the air fryer and why it might become your preferred cooking method for this dish:

Adjustments for Air Fryer Cooking

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Many models require preheating for optimal cooking. Preheat your air fryer to around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C) for a few minutes before adding the chicken. This ensures a crispier crust.
• Modify the Coating: Since air fryer cooking relies on circulating hot air, it’s best to ensure your mayo and Parmesan coating is not too thick. A thinner layer will crisp up better in the air fryer’s circulating heat.
• Reduce Cooking Time: Air fryers cook food faster than conventional ovens, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Start checking for doneness after about 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Flip Halfway Through: For even cooking and browning, flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that both sides get a nice, crispy crust.
• Avoid Overcrowding: To allow for proper air circulation, which is key to getting a crispy crust, don’t overcrowd the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer

• Healthier Cooking: Air fryers require little to no additional oil, making this method of cooking Parmesan-crusted chicken slightly healthier than frying or even baking with excessive oil or butter.
• Crispier Outcome: The circulating hot air in an air fryer means that the moisture on the surface of the chicken evaporates quickly, leaving the crust exceptionally crispy and the interior juicy.
• Faster Cooking Time: As mentioned, air fryers cook food faster due to their compact size and the efficient circulation of hot air. This means you can enjoy your Parmesan-crusted chicken sooner.
• Easy Cleanup: Most air fryers have non-stick baskets or trays that are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze compared to scrubbing baking trays or dealing with splattered oil from traditional frying.
• Versatility: Beyond just Parmesan-crusted chicken, air fryers are versatile kitchen appliances that can be used for a wide range of dishes, from vegetables to baked goods, making them a valuable tool for any home cook.

Oven Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayonnaise

Oven baking Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayonnaise can yield deliciously moist chicken with a perfectly crispy crust if done correctly. Here’s how you can optimize your oven baking method and understand the role mayonnaise plays in this process:

Oven Baking Tips for a Crispy Crust

• Preheat the Oven: Start with a hot oven to ensure your chicken starts cooking and crisping up the moment it goes in. Preheat your oven to around 400°F (200°C) to get that golden, crispy exterior.
• Use a Rack: Place a wire rack on top of your baking sheet and arrange the chicken pieces on the rack. This setup allows air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring the bottom gets as crispy as the top. If you don’t have a rack, make sure to flip the chicken halfway through baking.
• Pat the Chicken Dry: Before applying the mayonnaise, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the mayo and coating stick better and promotes a crisper finish.
• Optimal Coating Thickness: Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the chicken, but don’t lay it on too thick; a moderate layer is sufficient. After applying the mayo, coat the chicken with a mixture of Parmesan and breadcrumbs for that perfect crust.
• High Heat Baking: Cooking at a higher temperature (around 400°F) helps to crisp up the coating quickly while keeping the inside of the chicken juicy. Depending on thickness, bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How Mayonnaise Affects the Baking Process

• Moisture Barrier: Mayo forms a barrier on the chicken’s surface, locking in moisture. This prevents the chicken from drying out during the high-heat cooking, resulting in juicy meat.
• Fat Content for Crisping: The oil in mayonnaise aids in crisping the coating. As the chicken bakes, the fat in the mayo melts and effectively fries the breadcrumbs and Parmesan, creating a deliciously crispy crust.
• Flavor Enhancer: Mayonnaise adds a subtle tanginess and richness to the chicken, enhancing its overall flavor. It also acts as a binding agent for the Parmesan and breadcrumbs, ensuring they adhere well to the chicken.
• Even Browning: The even layer of mayonnaise helps to distribute heat uniformly across the chicken’s surface, promoting an evenly browned and crispy crust.

What to Serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Stuffed Pepper Casserole: Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a hearty, flavorful side that marries well with the textures and flavors of Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This casserole, brimming with the robust flavors of bell peppers, tomatoes, rice, and a mix of herbs and spices, complements the chicken’s crispiness and savory notes.
• Pumpkin Waffles: Pairing Pumpkin Waffles with Parmesan Crusted Chicken offers a delightful mix of savory and sweet, perfect for a brunch or an unconventional dinner. The spiced, slightly sweet flavor of pumpkin waffles, with their soft, fluffy texture, contrasts beautifully with the crispy, savory chicken.
• Fudge: Enjoying a piece of rich, creamy fudge as a dessert after a meal featuring the savory and slightly salty chicken creates a satisfying end-note. 

How to Reheat Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Reheating Parmesan Crusted Chicken while retaining its delightful crispiness is all about choosing the right method and knowing what pitfalls to avoid. Here’s how to enjoy your chicken as if it were freshly cooked:

Methods for Retaining Crispiness

• Oven or Toaster Oven:
  • Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). A higher temperature helps to re-crisp the crust.
  • Place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet. The rack ensures hot air circulates around the chicken, crisping it up on all sides.
  • Heat for 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. Check periodically to avoid overcooking, which can dry out the chicken.
• Air Fryer:
  • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (about 175°C) for a few minutes.
  • Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, ensuring pieces don’t touch for optimal air flow.
  • Cook for about 3-4 minutes, then check the crispiness. Air fryers reheat quickly and efficiently, reducing the risk of drying out the chicken.

What to Avoid When Reheating

• Microwaving: While it’s the quickest method, microwaving Parmesan Crusted Chicken is likely to leave it soggy rather than crispy. The microwave excels in heating food quickly but does so by steaming, which doesn’t bode well for crispy coatings.
• Overcrowding: Whether using an oven, toaster oven, or air fryer, avoid overcrowding the chicken pieces. Good air circulation is crucial for even reheating and restoring the crust’s crispiness.
• Skipping Preheating: It might be tempting to skip preheating to save time, but placing your chicken in a cold oven or air fryer will result in uneven heating and potentially soggy spots. Preheating ensures a rapid return to crispiness.
• Wrapping in Foil: Wrapping the chicken in foil will trap moisture and steam the crust, making it soft and chewy instead of crisp. If covering is necessary to prevent over-browning, do so loosely and for only part of the reheating time.

FAQs

• How do you keep breading on chicken parmesan? Ensuring your chicken is dry before the breading process and pressing the coating firmly onto the chicken helps the breading stick throughout the cooking process.
• What is the difference between chicken parmesan and chicken parmigiana? While essentially the same dish, regional variations might exist in the sauce used, the type of cheese, or the method of preparation.
• How to get a good crust on chicken? A combination of properly seasoning your breading mixture, ensuring your oil is at the right temperature, and not overcrowding the pan can lead to a perfectly crispy crust.
• What is the difference between chicken parmesan and chicken cutlet? Chicken parmesan includes a tomato-based sauce and is often served with cheese, whereas a chicken cutlet is simply breaded and fried chicken without these additions.
• What are some tips for serving Parmesan Crusted Chicken? Serve it fresh out of the oven or fryer, and consider light, refreshing sides to balance the richness of the dish.
• How can you best reheat Parmesan Crusted Chicken to maintain its texture? Reheating it in an oven or air fryer at a low temperature can help maintain its crispy texture without drying out the chicken.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a dish that offers endless possibilities for customization and innovation. Whether you’re a fan of the classic oven-baked version, prefer the lighter air fryer method, or love the unique twist that mayonnaise brings to the recipe, there’s a version of this dish for everyone. With the right techniques and a bit of culinary creativity, you can turn this simple dish into a gourmet meal that delights the senses and brings comfort with every bite.