Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece with this irresistible Baked Herb Crusted Chicken recipe! Imagine cutting into a perfectly golden, crispy chicken breast that's packed with aromatic herbs and Parmesan cheese, revealing a juicy, tender interior that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. This foolproof recipe is not just a meal – it's a culinary experience that combines simplicity with gourmet flavors, proving that impressive cooking doesn't have to be complicated.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a shallow mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, finely chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, and rosemary), grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute herbs and cheese evenly.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well blended, creating an egg wash for coating the chicken.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better.
- Dip each chicken breast first into the beaten eggs, ensuring complete coverage, then immediately transfer to the herb breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to create an even, thick coating.
- Place the coated chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
- Optionally, garnish with additional fresh herbs and serve with your choice of side dishes like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before coating to ensure the breading sticks perfectly and creates a crispy crust.
- Use fresh herbs if possible – they provide a more vibrant and intense flavor compared to dried herbs.
- For extra crunch, try toasting your breadcrumbs lightly in a pan before mixing with herbs and cheese.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) – this guarantees both safety and maximum juiciness.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko.
- Experiment with different herb combinations to create your own unique flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 150mg
