Why Make This Recipe
Crispy Baked Chicken is a delightful dish that offers all the crunch of fried chicken without the extra oil and mess. It’s a healthier option that still provides a satisfying taste and texture. Whether you’re cooking for your family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6oz each, patted dry)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter (cooled slightly)
Directions
- Start by prepping your coating: In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This is the secret to that amazing crunch!
- Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, making sure it’s well-coated. This butter bath helps the breadcrumb mixture stick and adds a rich flavor!
- Roll the buttered chicken in the breadcrumb mixture until it’s nicely covered. Don’t be shy – the more, the merrier!
- Arrange the coated chicken breasts on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes. Check that the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
- For that ultimate crispy finish, broil the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on it, though – you don’t want to burn that gorgeous crust!
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This helps keep it juicy.
- Serve hot and enjoy with tasty sides like creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Bon appétit!
How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken
Crispy Baked Chicken is versatile and can be served with many sides. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, crisp salads, or grilled vegetables. You can also add your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or BBQ for an extra flavor boost.
How to Store Crispy Baked Chicken
To store leftover Crispy Baked Chicken, let it cool completely. Then, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.
Tips to Make Crispy Baked Chicken
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before coating it to help the breading stick better.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture and flavor.
- If you want even more crunch, consider double dipping the chicken (butter, then breadcrumbs, then back to butter, and finally breadcrumbs again).
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking. This helps keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.
Variations
You can customize this recipe by adding different spices to the breadcrumb mixture. Try adding Italian herbs, chili powder for a kick, or even some lemon zest for a fresh taste. You can also swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a different flavor and texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely and pat it dry before proceeding with the coating.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep this dish gluten-free and still enjoy that crispy texture.
3. How can I tell when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Enjoy your Crispy Baked Chicken!
Crispy Baked Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Roll the buttered chicken in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Arrange the coated chicken breasts on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Broil the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven.
- Serve hot with sides like creamy mashed potatoes, salads, or grilled vegetables.
Notes
