Chicken may seem like an ordinary protein, but prepared with a blend of creamy yogurt and sharp Parmesan, it transforms into a dish that flirts with decadence while staying delightfully simple to make. Today's recipe promises a golden, crispy finish—much like fried chicken—but is oven-baked for a lighter, less oily result. Let's dive into this crowd-pleasing, family-favorite chicken dish.

Ingredients for Success

For this crispy Parmesan chicken, you'll need:

  • 4 boneless chicken breast fillets (approx. 450g)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (or thick Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

This recipe keeps things minimal yet flavorful, letting the natural taste of the chicken shine while enhancing it with creamy and cheesy layers.

Step-by-Step: How to Craft the Perfect Parmesan Chicken

1. Prep the Chicken: Begin by flattening each chicken breast to ensure even cooking. You can do this by placing the fillets between two sheets of parchment paper and gently pounding them with a mallet or rolling pin. If the fillets are thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally.

2. The Coating: In a bowl, combine your mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, garlic powder, seasoned salt, and black pepper. This creamy mixture will act as the adhesive, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and juiciness.

3. Cheese It Up: Pour the grated Parmesan cheese onto a large plate. Once your chicken is coated in the creamy mixture, press each fillet into the cheese, coating both sides generously.

4. Baking Time: Lay the coated fillets on a lined baking tray. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is golden brown and crisp.

5. Serving Suggestion: Slice and serve with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added flavor, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or freshly chopped herbs never goes amiss.

The Magic of Baked Not Fried

This method borrows the irresistible golden crunch of fried chicken without the need for extra oil or a messy frying pan. The combination of tangy yogurt or rich mayo guarantees a tender, moist interior, while the Parmesan crisps up beautifully in the oven. If you love the comfort of classic fried chicken but prefer a lighter take, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Tips to Perfect the Recipe

  • For a more intense garlic punch, add a fresh clove of minced garlic to the creamy coating.
  • Mix in a handful of breadcrumbs with the Parmesan for even more crunch.
  • Swap out chicken breasts for chicken thighs for an even juicier result.

Watch and Learn

Hungry for visual guidance? Here's a helpful video to watch how the process comes together:

Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this easy baked Parmesan chicken brings both comfort and flavor to your table. With the crunch of toasted cheese and the effortless baked method, it is sure to draw rave reviews every time.

Source: https://recepten.servi.tn/een-delicate-kipdelicatesse/