Breaded Chicken Breast – Baked Panko Breaded

Breaded Chicken Breast – This Breaded Chicken Breast recipe is a crispy, golden crust locks in the juiciness of the chicken, with simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends. Serve it with a zesty dipping sauce, over a bed of fresh greens, or alongside buttery mashed potatoes

Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Breaded Chicken Breast

Achieving the ideal crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy takes some know-how. Here are some pro tips:

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking and prevents dry spots.
• Use the Three-Step Breading Process:
  • Flour: Dredge the chicken in flour to help the egg wash stick.
  • Egg Wash: Dip it in beaten eggs to provide moisture for the breadcrumbs.
  • Breadcrumbs: Coat with seasoned breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
• Season Every Layer: Add salt, pepper, and spices to the flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs to build flavor.
• Let It Rest: After breading, let the chicken rest for 10–15 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better during cooking.
• Use the Right Oil: Choose oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, for frying.
• Cook to Perfection: Use medium heat for frying. If baking, set the oven to 400°F (200°C) for crispy results.

How to Make Panko Breaded Chicken?

This is the panko version of parmesan crusted chicken.

Ingredients

• 1.25 lbs or 4 chicken cutlets
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 cup grated or zested parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 eggs
• salt and pepper
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary, minced

Instructions

1. Thoroughly washes the chicken and season with salt and pepper on both the sides.
2. Now take 3 bowls, in the first one add zested parmesan cheese, then the eggs in the second and panko in the third bowl.
3. Add the rosemary to the egg bowl and whisk together until well combined.
4. Now let’s bread the chicken breasts, first dip it into the parmesan, then into the egg bowl, drip off any excess, and finally dip into the panko bowl; continue to bread the chicken with this same process.
5. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and once hot, add olive oil (about 2-3 tbsp.), then add 2 or 3 chicken cutlets at a time and fry until golden and crispy for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
6. Repeat the same with the remaining cutlets, and enjoy!

Variations to Try

Breaded chicken breast is incredibly adaptable. Here are some variations to suit your taste:

• Parmesan-Crusted Chicken: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for a nutty, cheesy flavor.
• Spicy Breaded Chicken: Mix cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the breading for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of traditional ones.
• Herb-Crusted Chicken: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, parsley, or basil to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Panko Crust: Use Japanese panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy texture.

How to Serve Breaded Chicken Breast

Breaded chicken breast pairs wonderfully with various sides and sauces. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Classic Comfort: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a creamy mushroom sauce.
• Italian-Inspired: Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella, then bake for a quick chicken Parmesan.
• Asian Twist: Drizzle with teriyaki sauce and serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.
• Salad Topping: Slice the chicken and add it to a Caesar salad or a mixed greens bowl for a hearty meal.
• Sandwich Star: Turn it into a crispy chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.

Breaded Chicken Tenders

Ingredients

• 1-2 pounds chicken tenders or 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into 1-inch thick strips
• 1 egg beaten
• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. Heat up a skillet over medium heat, add oil and while it’s getting hot we will bread the chicken.
2. Take 2 bowls, mix flour, salt and pepper in the first bowl and beat the egg in the second one.
3. Dredge the chicken in the flour, shake off any excess flour and dip in the egg, then again back in the flour and repeat the same for the remaining chicken and set aside for about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and fry for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Once cooked, transfer to a paper towel lined plate
6. Sprinkle with a little more salt (if needed).

How to Store and Reheat Breaded Chicken Breast

Breaded chicken breast stores well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

• Storing in the Refrigerator: Place cooled chicken in an airtight container and store for up to 3 days.
• Freezing for Later: Freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating Tips:
  • Oven: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes to retain crispiness.
  • Air Fryer: Heat for 5–7 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
  • Avoid the Microwave: While convenient, microwaving can make the coating soggy.

Recipe FAQs

1. Can I make breaded chicken breast ahead of time? Yes! You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the coating to set for better adherence.

2. Can I bake instead of fry? Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

3. How do I prevent the breading from falling off? Ensure the chicken is dry before breading, and follow the three-step breading process. Resting the chicken before cooking helps the coating stick.

4. What breadcrumbs are best for breaded chicken breast? Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for a super-crispy coating. For a more traditional texture, Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs work well.

5. Can I use an air fryer? Yes, an air fryer is a healthier alternative that still delivers crispy results. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Still Hungry! Try These Delicious Chicken Recipes:

• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
• Baked Basil Chicken Pesto
• Chicken Moo Shu
• Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Conclusion

Breaded chicken breast is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re frying, baking, or air frying, this recipe guarantees crispy, juicy results every time. With the tips and variations provided, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy this classic dish. Happy cooking!