Description
Herb-Crusted Chicken is a juicy and flavorful entrée featuring boneless, skinless chicken breasts coated with a savory blend of aromatic herbs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and crispy panko breadcrumbs. Baked to perfection with a golden crust, this dish is simple to prepare and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Breading and Seasoning:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the chicken evenly and creating a crispy crust.
- Prepare baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Brush chicken with olive oil: Using a brush, evenly coat each chicken breast with olive oil, which helps the breadcrumb mixture stick and promotes browning during baking.
- Mix coating: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, thyme, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create the flavorful herb crust mixture.
- Coat chicken: Press each oiled chicken breast firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is thoroughly coated on all sides for maximum flavor and crunch.
- Arrange chicken for baking: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly for proper heat circulation and even cooking.
- Bake chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and juicy.
- Rest before serving: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, which keeps the meat tender and flavorful.
Notes
- Fresh herbs such as thyme, parsley, and Italian seasoning can be used as a substitute for dried herbs for a fresher, more vibrant flavor.
- This herb-crusted chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- For an extra crispy crust, broil the chicken during the last 2 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
