Description
A delicious recipe for crispy cheesy chicken breasts featuring a crunchy panko and Parmesan crust, pan-fried to golden perfection, then baked with melted mozzarella cheese for a gooey, satisfying finish. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Breading
- 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
Topping & Cooking
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Prepare the 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.
- Bread the chicken: Coat each chicken breast first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even crust that sticks well.
- Pan-fry the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the coating is golden and crispy. The chicken will finish cooking in the oven.
- Add cheese and bake: Transfer the browned chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet. Top each breast generously with shredded mozzarella cheese, then place in the oven.
- Bake until cooked through: Bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Press breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to create a crispy crust that holds during frying and baking.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances flavor more than pre-grated varieties.
- For extra crispiness, you can double dip the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture retention.
