If you're looking to impress your family or guests with a dish that's both simple and bursting with flavor, look no further than this delectable Chicken with Parmesan, Basil, and Melting! This Italian-inspired recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a crispy, cheesy coating that will leave everyone asking for seconds. In just 40 minutes, you can transform everyday ingredients into a gourmet meal that tastes like it came straight from a fine dining restaurant. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the coating adhere better.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In another bowl, pour in the olive oil. You will use this to coat the chicken breasts before dredging them in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Take each chicken breast and dip it into the olive oil, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess oil to drip off.
- Next, transfer the oiled chicken breast into the bowl with the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Press the mixture onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well. Repeat this process for all chicken breasts.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Make sure they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the chicken in the oven. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices within the chicken.
- Serve the chicken warm, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time on busy nights, you can prepare the chicken and coating mixture in advance. Simply coat the chicken and store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake!
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh basil for a more vibrant flavor. If you can, pick it right from your garden or buy it from a local farmer's market for the best taste.
- Perfect Coating: Ensure that the chicken is well-coated in olive oil before dredging it in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. This helps the coating stick better and results in a crispier finish.
- Oven Thermometer: If you want to ensure even baking, consider using an oven thermometer. Ovens can often be off by a few degrees, which can affect cooking times.
- Don’t Rush the Resting: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables. A splash of lemon juice over the top just before serving can also enhance the flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 130mg
