fall comfort food parmesan baked chicken for family feasts
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm and hearty meal to bring the family together. Fall comfort food is all about warmth, coziness, and delicious flavors that evoke memories of family gatherings and festive feasts. One dish that perfectly encapsulates these feelings is parmesan baked chicken. This recipe combines tender chicken with a crispy parmesan crust, making it an ideal centerpiece for your family dinners. So gather around the table and get ready to enjoy a meal that everyone will love!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
- Place the flour in a third shallow bowl. This will be used for dredging the chicken.
- Take each chicken breast and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Finally, dredge the chicken in the parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to ensure an even coating.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite sides.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Family Feasts
This parmesan baked chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The crispy, cheesy coating adds a delightful crunch, while the juicy chicken inside ensures every bite is packed with flavor. It pairs well with classic fall sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, making it a versatile choice for any family gathering.
Tips for the Best Parmesan Baked Chicken
To achieve the perfect parmesan crust, consider these helpful tips:
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- For an extra crunchy coating, try mixing in some crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs with the parmesan.
- Let the chicken rest after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your family’s liking.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complement your parmesan baked chicken:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic make for a classic pairing.
- Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Try carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes drizzled in olive oil and roasted until tender.
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a cozy, satisfying meal.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken typically takes longer to cook, so ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
2. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, use a gluten-free flour for dredging.
3. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can coat the chicken in the breadcrumbs and place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes dinner prep easier.
4. What should I do if I don’t have parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have parmesan cheese, you can use another hard cheese like pecorino romano or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
This fall comfort food parmesan baked chicken is a delightful dish that your family will look forward to enjoying at every gathering. Its crispy exterior and juicy interior create a satisfying meal that is perfect for cozy evenings at home. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can pull together a feast that everyone will love. So this fall, embrace the season with this comforting recipe and make lasting memories around the dinner table!
