Herb-Crusted Chicken Delight

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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If you're looking to jazz up your chicken game, this Herb-Crusted Chicken Delight is a must-try. It's all about the crispy, savory crust that transforms simple chicken breasts into something crave-worthy and special. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend feast!

Ingredients for Herb-Crusted Chicken Delight

The star of this recipe is the Parmesan cheese, which adds a nutty, salty depth to the crust. Pair it with breadcrumbs for that essential crispy texture. Fresh parsley and fresh thyme bring a garden-fresh flavor that elevates the whole dish. Garlic powder infuses a subtle kick without overpowering the herbs. A pinch of salt and black pepper rounds out the seasoning. The eggs act as a binding agent, helping the crust adhere perfectly to the chicken. Finally, a touch of olive oil is key for browning the crust before it hits the oven.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crunch, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
  • If you're short on fresh herbs, dried will do in a pinch — just use half the amount.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken without overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

This herb-crusted chicken pairs wonderfully with a light, lemony arugula salad or roasted vegetables. For a more comforting meal, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a simple risotto. A glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can! Just adjust the baking time as thighs tend to take a bit longer to cook through.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crust's crispiness.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free variety or use crushed gluten-free crackers.

Herb-Crusted Chicken Delight Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get your baking sheet lightly greased so you're ready to go. In a shallow bowl, mix together the Parmesan, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will form the delicious crust on your chicken.

Next, crack open the eggs into another bowl and give them a good whisk until they're smooth. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, making sure every inch is coated — this is what helps the crust stick. Now, press each chicken breast into the Parmesan and herb mixture, coating it well on all sides. The more you pack on, the better!

Heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's hot (but not smoking), add your chicken breasts. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they're golden brown. You're not cooking them all the way through here, just getting that lovely crust started.

Transfer the golden-brown chicken to your prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven for 15-20 minutes. You'll know they're done when the juices run clear and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). Let them rest for a few minutes after baking to keep them juicy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy, flavorful crust that doesn't require deep frying.
  • Quick and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
  • Uses fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
  • Great for impressing guests without the fuss.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 large eggs
2 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.
5. Press the chicken into the Parmesan and herb mixture, coating evenly on all sides.
6. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
8. Transfer chicken to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
9. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

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