Description
A healthier, homemade alternative to store-bought coating mixes, this recipe delivers crispy, golden-brown chicken using simple pantry ingredients like panko and parmesan. It is quick to prepare, high in protein, and adaptable for various dietary needs.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Dried parsley
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 tsp Mustard powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 Egg whites
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
- Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. If breasts are thick, pound to ½-inch thickness. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to dry brine.
- In a food processor, combine panko, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, smoked paprika, cayenne, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely combined and transfer to a shallow bowl.
- Whisk egg whites in a second shallow bowl until slightly frothy.
- Dip chicken pieces into egg whites, let excess drip off, then press firmly into the breading mixture to ensure coating adheres.
- Place coated chicken on the wire rack, ensuring pieces do not touch.
- Lightly spray tops with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Ensure chicken is patted completely dry before breading to maximize crispiness. Use a wire rack to prevent soggy bottoms. For meal prep, cool completely before storing to maintain crunch. Reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast or
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 30
Keywords: homemade shake and bake, crispy chicken, baked chicken, healthy dinner, gluten-free chicken, meal prep, quick recipes, parmesan chicken