Pan Fried Parmesan Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a crispy, flavorful coating of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. This recipe offers a delightful balance of savory flavors and satisfying textures, making it a perfect choice for a hearty and delicious meal that the whole family will love.

Why Make Pan Fried Parmesan Chicken

This dish is a fantastic option for those looking to add a touch of gourmet flair to their weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. The combination of Parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, and aromatic spices elevates the flavor profile of the chicken, while the pan-frying method ensures a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

How to Make Pan Fried Parmesan Chicken

Prepare Chicken: Begin by ensuring your chicken breasts are thin, preferably under an inch in thickness. This ensures even cooking.
Breading Process: In a shallow dish, beat the eggs. In another shallow dish, combine Italian breadcrumbs (or panko), freshly grated Parmesan cheese, pepper, onion powder, and flour. Stir to fully combine.
Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Pan-Fry Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Cook the coated chicken breasts in the hot skillet, about 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Saute Zucchini: In the same skillet, add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Saute minced garlic for 1-2 minutes, then add sliced zucchini. Cook until tender, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, gently mixing with the zucchini. Heat for an additional 30 seconds, then sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pan Fried Parmesan Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as:

Steamed vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a nutritious accompaniment.
Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and hearty base for the chicken and zucchini.
Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken dish.

Storage Info

Any leftover Pan Fried Parmesan Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Techniques or Tips

Thin Chicken Breasts: Ensuring the chicken breasts are thin allows for quicker and more even cooking.
Even Coating: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well and forms a crispy crust.
Temperature Control: Maintain the heat at medium-high while cooking the chicken to achieve a golden brown crust without burning.

Variation

For a twist on this classic recipe, consider adding additional herbs and spices to the breadcrumb mixture, such as dried oregano, basil, or thyme, to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

FAQs about Pan Fried Parmesan Chicken

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless?
- While boneless chicken breasts are typically used for this recipe due to their quick cooking time, you can use bone-in chicken breasts if preferred. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Can I substitute zucchini with other vegetables?
- Yes, feel free to substitute zucchini with other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus, depending on your preferences.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
- Yes, you can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for the Italian breadcrumbs and flour called for in the recipe to make it gluten-free-friendly.

Pan Fried Parmesan Chicken

title

Pan Fried Parmesan Chicken is a delicious dish featuring crispy breaded chicken breasts topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, served alongside sautéed garlic zucchini. It's a flavorful and satisfying meal that's easy to make.

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Serving Size servings

Equipment

Large Skillet
Shallow Dish
Tongs

Ingredients

4 thin chicken breasts, boneless
8 tablespoons butter, divided
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup Italian bread crumbs or panko
1 teaspoon pepper
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup flour
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 medium-sized zucchini, sliced semi-thin
3 fresh garlic cloves, minced

Instructions

Beat the eggs in a shallow dish, set aside.
In another shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, pepper, onion powder, and flour. Stir to fully combine, then set aside.
In a large hot skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter.
Dip each chicken piece in the egg mixture, then coat in the bread crumb mixture. Place in the hot skillet with the melted butter.
Cook on each side for about 4 minutes or until the outside is crispy and browned and the chicken is cooked completely throughout. Remove from pan and set aside.
Add 4 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and sauté the fresh garlic for about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and sauté until completely tender. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the chicken back to the skillet, gently mix, and heat for about 30 seconds.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Notes

This dish is best served immediately while the chicken is still hot and crispy. Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.