A delectable twist on a classic chicken dish has emerged, promising to entice taste buds with its rich, cheesy crust. This revamped recipe features Parmesan-crusted chicken, a culinary creation that combines simplicity with flavor, offering an elevated dining experience.
The preparation begins with two boneless, skinless chicken breasts, each weighing approximately 8 ounces. These are seasoned with salt and black pepper. The key components for the crust include 1 1/4 cups of panko breadcrumbs, 3/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and a tablespoon of finely chopped parsley, with extra reserved for garnishing. Fresh ingredients play a pivotal role in achieving the desired flavor.
To enhance the taste, the recipe calls for three tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and a quarter cup of mayonnaise, alongside a tablespoon of garlic powder. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees, ensuring it’s sufficiently hot to achieve a crispy finish. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
After patting the chicken dry with a paper towel, each breast is carefully sliced in half horizontally to form two thin cutlets, resulting in four pieces. These are then pounded to a thickness of 1/4-inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This step ensures even cooking and tender texture.
The next phase involves preparing the crust coating. In a large, shallow bowl or rimmed plate, combine the panko, Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly before adding the olive oil, tossing until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. This mixture forms the savory crust for the chicken.
Each chicken cutlet is brushed on one side with mayonnaise, then dipped mayo-side down into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres properly. The process is repeated for the other side, ensuring both are fully coated. This step is crucial to achieving the desired crust.
Place the breaded cutlets on the prepared sheet pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, turning the pan around halfway through the cooking process for even browning. The chicken should be golden brown and thoroughly cooked by the end. A parsley garnish adds a touch of freshness when serving.
This Parmesan-crusted chicken recipe transforms a simple dinner into a gourmet experience. By utilizing pantry staples and emphasizing technique, it delivers both flavor and texture that are sure to impress. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is a testament to the idea that cheese truly enhances every meal.
Source: WSVN
