Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

The aroma of Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken baking in the oven is enough to bring everyone to the kitchen. This recipe creates a golden, crisp coating over tender chicken, with a punchy blend of nutty parmesan and crunchy breadcrumbs. With minimal prep and just minutes to assemble, it always helps me bring a touch of steakhouse comfort home—without the long wait or complicated steps. Topped with a lively sauce of your choice and scattered with fresh herbs, it is a dish that never fails to impress, whether for a cozy family dinner or a weekend treat.

This recipe became my go-to on busy weeknights when everyone craved something comforting but quick. The golden cheesy crust and juicy chicken are an instant hit every time and friends always ask for the recipe.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Choose boneless and skinless for easy prep and make sure they are not too thick for even baking
• Parmesan cheese: Aged parmesan gives the best nutty bite and crisp finish Look for freshly grated or grate your own for maximum flavor
• Breadcrumbs: Panko or Italian style both work for extra crunch Use fresh breadcrumbs for lighter coating if you prefer
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers deep savory notes Granulated garlic is a good alternative in a pinch
• Egg: The egg binds the coating to the chicken and helps the crust puff up as it bakes
• Marinara sauce or Alfredo sauce: Choose according to your taste Homemade or good quality store bought sauces make a difference
• Olive oil: Just a drizzle helps give the crust a golden crunch and prevents sticking Choose good quality extra virgin for best results
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts into a stretchy topping over the crispy chicken Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly
• Parsley: Adds fresh flavor and color to garnish Look for bright green, crisp leaves

• Tips for buying chicken: Go for pieces similar in size for even cooking and avoid ones with too much moisture for the best crisp surface

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit This ensures an even high heat for crisping

Flatten the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment or plastic wrap Gently pound to an even one half inch thickness for quick even cooking Pat chicken dry to help the coating adhere

Mix Flour and Seasonings:

Stir together the flour salt pepper garlic powder and onion powder in a wide shallow bowl This mixture provides the first layer of savory flavor and helps the egg stick

Make Egg Wash:

In a second bowl whisk the eggs and water until no streaks remain This liquid wash will work as glue for the coating

Combine Parmesan and Breadcrumbs:

In a third bowl blend together the grated parmesan Italian breadcrumbs and panko so you have an even mix Press any clumps apart for easy coating

Coat the Chicken:

First dredge each piece of chicken fully in the flour Shake off the excess Dip into the egg wash coating all sides Lift and let extra drip away Press into the parmesan and breadcrumb mix to form a thick even crust

Brown in a Skillet:

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium Add chicken and cook four to five minutes per side until deeply golden and crisp Finish batches as needed so you do not crowd the pan

Bake to Finish:

Move browned chicken to a prepared baking sheet Top with a handful of shredded mozzarella Bake for eight to ten minutes until the cheese is melted and chicken is cooked through Check for an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit

Add Finishing Touches:

Remove from the oven Drizzle with warm melted butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley Serve hot with sauce spooned over the top or on the side

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My favorite part of this dish is the crispy parmesan crust The first time I made it for a family get together everyone asked for seconds and I watched my kids scrape every last crumb from their plates It is a recipe that always brings people together

Storage Tips

Let leftover chicken cool to room temperature before storing Place it in an airtight container and keep the sauce separate to prevent the crust from getting soggy Reheat in a hot oven for ten minutes for best crunch Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator up to three days or freeze for three months

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out parmesan for pecorino for a saltier punch or use gluten free breadcrumbs for a wheat free version If you do not have fresh parsley a pinch of dried Italian herbs works well For a lighter dish skip the mozzarella on top and offer sauce on the side

Serving Suggestions

Serve with roasted garlic vegetables like carrots zucchini and peppers on the side For a classic pairing a pile of creamy mashed potatoes is hard to beat Or toss together a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the chicken Whatever you choose be sure to spoon plenty of sauce over each serving

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Cultural Context

This recipe takes inspiration from traditional Italian American chicken parmesan but uses a steakhouse twist with an extra thick cheesy crust The combination of pan browning and oven finishing gives it a restaurant texture that feels special but is easy enough for any home cook

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you achieve an extra crispy crust?

For the crispiest crust, combine panko with parmesan, and bake or fry at high heat. Drizzling with a touch of olive oil before baking enhances the crunch.

→ What sauces pair best with this dish?

Classic marinara adds tang, while alfredo brings richness. Both compliment the savory coating—try either based on your preference.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and remain juicy. Adjust cooking time to ensure they reach proper doneness.

→ How can I keep the coating from falling off?

Pat the chicken dry, dredge carefully in flour, then dip in egg before coating with the parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Press gently for adherence.

→ How should leftovers be reheated?

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 375°F to restore a crispy crust—avoid microwaving, which can make the coating soggy.

→ What are ideal side dishes for this meal?

Serve with garlic roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a refreshing mixed greens salad to balance flavors and textures.