Description
Crispy Cheesy Chicken is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pan-fried to golden perfection, then baked with melted mozzarella cheese. This combination delivers a crispy crust with a gooey cheesy topping, making it a perfect comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Cooking and Garnish:
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking.
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls – one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to coat the chicken evenly.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, shaking off the excess, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture to cover thoroughly ensuring the coating sticks well.
- Pan Fry Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. The chicken will finish cooking in the oven, so it does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the browned chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet. Generously top each breast with shredded mozzarella cheese to add a delicious melted layer.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately for a hot, cheesy, and crispy meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs as they provide a lighter, crunchier coating.
- You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or cheddar cheese for different flavor profiles.
- If you prefer less oil, consider baking the chicken after coating without frying first, but note the crust may be less crispy.
- Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
