If you’re searching for a dish that dazzles both the eyes and the taste buds, this Golden Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner. Crisp, golden, and bursting with savory Parmesan flavor, this chicken is tender on the inside with a delightfully crunchy crust on the outside. It’s a simple yet sophisticated recipe that will quickly become a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is straightforward but plays a crucial role in creating the irresistible texture and flavor of this dish. From the tangy yoghurt marinade to the crunchy Parmesan and breadcrumb coating, each element works together to elevate the chicken to something truly special.
- Chicken Breasts: Thinly sliced into cutlets for quick and even cooking.
- Fat-free plain yoghurt: Adds moisture and tenderizes the chicken without overpowering it.
- Lemon juice: Provides a fresh acidity that brightens the marinade beautifully.
- Italian breadcrumbs: For the perfect crispy base of the crust.
- Fresh Parmesan cheese: Grated or shaved for an intensely savory, nutty flavor in the crust.
- Dried parsley: Adds a touch of herby freshness to the coating.
- Black pepper and sea salt: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance flavors.
- Garlic powder: Brings subtle depth without overpowering the delicate chicken.
- Eggs: Help the crust stick and create that delightful golden hue.
- Olive oil spray: Keeps the chicken crisp while frying—healthier and fuss-free.
How to Make Golden Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking the yoghurt and lemon juice together until smooth and combined—this tangy mixture tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with bright flavor. Place your thin-cut chicken cutlets into a ziplock bag with the marinade, seal it tightly, and massage the yoghurt evenly over the chicken. Pop the bag in the fridge and let the magic happen overnight. The longer it marinates, the more tender and juicy your chicken will be.
Step 2: Prepare the Parmesan Crust
When you’re ready to cook, carefully take the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess yoghurt—too much could make the crust soggy. Pulse fresh Parmesan in a food processor until finely grated or grate by hand if you prefer. Mix this cheesy goodness with Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper on a plate or shallow dish. This combination is the secret to that rich, golden crust you’ll love.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken cutlet into the beaten eggs to create a sticky surface for the crust to cling to. Then press the cutlets firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring every inch is coated. Place the crusted cutlets onto a plate or tray, ready for cooking. The pressure you apply here helps that crust become extra crispy and flavorful during frying.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat a good-quality non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and spray generously with olive oil. Add the chicken cutlets in batches if necessary, so they don’t crowd and steam. Fry for about 5 minutes on the first side, waiting until the chicken easily lifts from the pan and the crust looks golden and inviting. Before flipping, spray the tops with a little more oil to help crisp that crust evenly. Cook the other side for another 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and beautifully golden all over.
How to Serve Golden Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few lemon wedges on the side adds a burst of color and freshness, perfectly balancing the rich Parmesan crust. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dash of flaky sea salt can boost flavor right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with vibrant, crisp salads, garlic mashed potatoes, or even a simple bowl of roasted vegetables. The golden, crunchy chicken acts as a fantastic centerpiece against light, refreshing sides that complement but don’t overshadow its rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Golden Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe sliced thinly over a bed of herbed couscous or pasta tossed in olive oil and fresh tomatoes. You can also tuck slices into a crusty sandwich or wrap for a satisfying lunch option that keeps the crispy crust intact.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Golden Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe should be cooled completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay flavorful and safe to eat for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken cutlets in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together and keeps the crust crisp after reheating. Frozen chicken keeps well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
The best way to reheat the chicken to maintain its crispy golden crust is in the oven or an air fryer. Wrap in foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for around 15 minutes or until warmed through, avoiding the microwave to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yoghurt instead of plain yoghurt in this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for fat-free plain yoghurt rather than Greek yoghurt because it is thinner and coats the chicken better, ensuring the marinade absorbs evenly and the crust adheres perfectly.
Do I have to marinate the chicken overnight?
While marinating overnight gives the best tenderness and flavor, if you’re short on time, even 1-2 hours can make a noticeable difference compared to not marinating at all.
Can I bake this chicken instead of frying?
Yes! Place the coated chicken on a greased baking tray and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden and chicken is cooked through.
What’s the best cheese to use in the crust?
Fresh Parmesan is key for the authentic nutty, savory flavor and that perfect golden crust. Avoid pre-grated types since they don’t melt or crisp up as beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! Its make-ahead marinade and easy reheating make the Golden Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe great for preparing meals early in the week and enjoying flavorful, quick dinners anytime.
Final Thoughts
This Golden Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is a delightful mix of crispy, juicy, and cheesy that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s an easy way to bring a little restaurant-quality magic into your kitchen. Give it a try, and soon it will be one of your go-to dishes that everyone asks for again and again.
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Golden Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes plus overnight marinating
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (excluding marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Golden Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful and crispy skillet-fried chicken dish featuring tender chicken cutlets marinated in a tangy yogurt and lemon mixture, then coated in a flavorful blend of fresh Parmesan, Italian breadcrumbs, and herbs. This easy-to-make recipe yields a golden crust with a juicy interior, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Chicken Preparation
- 2 Chicken Breasts (approx 550g), sliced into 4 thin cutlets
- 1/2 cup fat-free plain yoghurt (do not use Greek)
- Juice of half a lemon
Crust Mixture
- 60g Italian breadcrumbs
- 120g fresh Parmesan, grated or shaved
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of black pepper
- Pinch of sea salt
Coating & Cooking
- 2 eggs, whisked
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the fat-free plain yoghurt and lemon juice until well combined to create the marinade.
- Marinate chicken: Place the chicken cutlets into a ziplock bag with the yoghurt-lemon mixture. Seal the bag making sure the cutlets are fully coated, then refrigerate and marinate overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Remove excess marinade: When ready to cook, carefully take the chicken cutlets out of the bag, shaking off any excess yoghurt to avoid soggy crust.
- Make crust mixture: In a mini food processor, pulse the Parmesan until finely grated or grate by hand. Combine the Parmesan with Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried parsley, sea salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish, mixing thoroughly.
- Coat chicken: Dip each chicken cutlet into the beaten eggs to fully coat, then press them into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even and thick crust forms. Place the coated cutlets on a plate or tray ready for frying.
- Heat pan: Preheat a large non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and generously spray with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and to aid in crisping.
- Fry chicken: Add the coated cutlets to the pan without overcrowding (cook in batches if necessary). Fry for about 5 minutes on the first side, or until the cutlets turn golden brown and lift easily from the pan.
- Flip and continue cooking: Spray the top side with a little more olive oil, then flip the cutlets carefully. Cook the second side for another 5 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately with your favorite sides such as salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful chicken!
Notes
- Marinating chicken overnight in yoghurt and lemon juice tenderizes the meat and adds moisture.
- Using fresh Parmesan is essential for best flavor and texture; pre-grated Parmesan does not work well.
- Do not use Greek yoghurt as it is too thick and will not coat the chicken properly.
- The olive oil spray helps achieve a crispy crust without deep frying.
- If a mini food processor is not available, grate Parmesan finely by hand.
- Cooking in batches avoids overcrowding which could cause steaming instead of frying.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; the crust can soften if left to sit too long.
