Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe

Even on the busiest weeknights, the call for a comforting and satisfying dinner is always strong. Lately, my go-to solution for a quick yet incredibly flavorful meal has been Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Honestly, this recipe is a weeknight wonder! From prep to plate, it’s surprisingly simple, and the results are just outstanding. The chicken comes out beautifully juicy on the inside with this gloriously crispy, cheesy Parmesan crust that everyone in my family absolutely raves about. Even my teenager, who is usually skeptical of anything homemade, devours this chicken without a second thought. What I love most is the minimal cleanup – everything cooks on one sheet pan! It’s perfect for those evenings when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen or dealing with mountains of dishes. If you’re searching for a family-friendly, fuss-free dinner that delivers big on flavor and crispy texture, look no further. This Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a guaranteed winner and has become a regular rotation in our dinner menu.

Ingredients for Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

The magic of Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken lies in the harmonious blend of simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the flavorful crust and ensuring juicy, tender chicken. Let’s explore each ingredient in detail:

• Chicken Breasts: The star of the show, 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts form the protein base of this dish. Opt for chicken breasts that are of even thickness, ideally about ¾ to 1 inch thick. This ensures they cook uniformly on the sheet pan. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you can butterfly them by slicing them horizontally through the middle to create two thinner cutlets from each breast. This not only helps them cook faster but also increases the surface area for that delicious Parmesan crust. When selecting chicken breasts, look for plump, pinkish meat with no discoloration or strong odors. Fresh, high-quality chicken will always yield the best results in terms of flavor and texture.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: The key ingredient for that irresistible crispy crust, you’ll need 1 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan is highly recommended over pre-grated cheese. Pre-grated Parmesan often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can hinder its melting and crisping capabilities. Freshly grated Parmesan melts and browns beautifully, creating a superior crust. For the best flavor, use Parmigiano-Reggiano if possible, but a good quality Parmesan cheese will work wonderfully. Finely grated cheese is essential for creating a cohesive and crispy crust that adheres well to the chicken.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: To enhance the crispiness and texture of the crust, ½ cup of Panko breadcrumbs are added. Panko breadcrumbs are Japanese-style breadcrumbs that are larger and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs. They provide a wonderful light and airy crispness, contributing to a satisfyingly crunchy crust without making it heavy or dense. If you don’t have Panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but Panko will deliver a superior crispy texture.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is crucial for both flavor and moisture. You’ll need 3 tablespoons of olive oil, divided. A portion is used to brush the chicken breasts, helping the Parmesan mixture adhere and promoting browning. The remaining olive oil is mixed into the Parmesan crust mixture to add moisture and richness, aiding in the crisping process and preventing the crust from becoming dry. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor and health benefits, but regular olive oil will also work well.
• Garlic Powder: For a savory and aromatic flavor boost, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder is added to the Parmesan crust mixture. Garlic powder provides a consistent and mellow garlic flavor that complements the Parmesan and chicken beautifully. It’s less overpowering than fresh garlic in this context and blends seamlessly into the dry crust mixture.
• Dried Italian Seasoning: To infuse the chicken with classic Italian herbs, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning is used. This blend typically includes herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram, creating a fragrant and flavorful profile that pairs wonderfully with Parmesan and chicken. You can also use a combination of individual dried herbs if you don’t have Italian seasoning blend on hand.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors, you’ll need ½ teaspoon of salt, or to taste. Salt is crucial for bringing out the best flavors in both the chicken and the Parmesan crust. Kosher salt is recommended for its larger crystals, which are easier to control when seasoning, but table salt can also be used.
• Black Pepper: For a touch of spice and depth of flavor, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, or to taste, is added. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground pepper.
• Optional: Lemon Wedges: Lemon wedges are highly recommended for serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished Parmesan Crusted Chicken adds a bright, acidic counterpoint to the richness of the cheese and chicken, enhancing the overall flavor and providing a refreshing finish.

By gathering these simple yet carefully chosen ingredients, you’re setting the stage for a truly delicious and satisfying Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken. The combination of Parmesan, Panko, and seasonings creates a flavorful and crispy crust, while the olive oil ensures juicy chicken and a perfectly browned finish.

Instructions for Making Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Now that you have all your ingredients prepped and ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for creating this incredibly easy and flavorful Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Follow these instructions carefully for perfect results every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating the oven to the correct temperature is crucial for ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and the Parmesan crust becomes beautifully crispy and golden brown. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the sheet pan inside.
• Prepare a sheet pan. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This makes for easy cleanup and prevents the chicken from sticking to the pan. If using aluminum foil, you may want to lightly grease it with cooking spray to further prevent sticking.
• Prepare the chicken breasts. If your chicken breasts are thick, butterfly them by slicing them horizontally through the middle to create thinner cutlets. This step is optional but recommended for faster and more even cooking, and it increases the surface area for the Parmesan crust. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the Parmesan crust adhere better and promotes browning.

Step 2: Make the Parmesan Crust Mixture

• Combine crust ingredients. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly with a fork or your fingers until well combined. The mixture should be crumbly and slightly moist from the olive oil.

Step 3: Assemble and Coat the Chicken

• Brush chicken with olive oil. Place the prepared chicken breasts on the prepared sheet pan, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking. Brush the top side of each chicken breast with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This helps the Parmesan mixture stick to the chicken.
• Press Parmesan mixture onto chicken. Take generous spoonfuls of the Parmesan crust mixture and evenly distribute it over the top of each olive oil-brushed chicken breast. Gently press the Parmesan mixture onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well. You want to create a thick and even layer of the Parmesan crust over the entire top surface of each chicken breast.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

• Bake in preheated oven. Place the sheet pan with the Parmesan-crusted chicken in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the Parmesan crust is golden brown and crispy. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts and your oven.
• Check for doneness. To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken breast, avoiding the bone if there is one. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If the crust is browning too quickly before the chicken is cooked through, you can loosely tent the sheet pan with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

• Rest the chicken briefly. Once cooked through and the Parmesan crust is golden brown, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Let the chicken rest on the sheet pan for a few minutes, about 5 minutes, before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in more tender and moist meat.
• Serve immediately. Serve the Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken immediately while it’s hot and the Parmesan crust is at its crispiest. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and serve with your favorite side dishes.

Following these detailed instructions will guide you to create perfectly cooked Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken with a flavorful and irresistibly crispy Parmesan crust. The simple sheet pan method and straightforward steps make this recipe a weeknight dinner winner, delivering delicious results with minimal effort.

Nutrition Facts for Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Understanding the nutritional content of your Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken can be helpful for making informed dietary choices. Here is an approximate breakdown of the nutrition facts per serving. Please remember that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, portion sizes, and slight variations in preparation.

Servings: 4 servings (1 chicken breast per serving)

Serving Size: 1 Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast (approximately)

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving:

• Calories: 350-450 kcal
  • This is an estimate and can vary based on the size of the chicken breasts and the amount of Parmesan crust consumed.
• Protein: 40-50g
  • Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair, as well as various bodily functions.
• Fat: 15-25g
  • Fat content comes primarily from olive oil and Parmesan cheese. While Parmesan cheese does contain fat, it is also a source of calcium and protein. The type of fat in olive oil is mainly monounsaturated, considered heart-healthy.
• Saturated Fat: 5-8g
  • Saturated fat content comes mainly from Parmesan cheese and chicken. It’s important to consume saturated fat in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Cholesterol: 150-200mg
  • Chicken is a source of cholesterol. Dietary cholesterol should be considered in the context of overall dietary patterns and individual health conditions.
• Carbohydrates: 5-10g
  • Carbohydrates mainly come from Panko breadcrumbs and a small amount from Parmesan cheese. These are relatively low in carbohydrates compared to many other breaded chicken dishes.
• Fiber: 1-2g
  • Panko breadcrumbs contribute a small amount of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and satiety.
• Sugar: 1-2g
  • Sugars are naturally occurring in ingredients. There is no added sugar in this recipe.
• Sodium: 400-600mg
  • Sodium content comes from Parmesan cheese and added salt. Parmesan cheese is naturally relatively high in sodium. You can adjust the amount of added salt to control sodium levels slightly.
• Vitamins and Minerals:
  • Calcium: Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium, important for bone health.
  • Vitamin B12: Chicken is an excellent source of Vitamin B12, crucial for nerve function and red blood cell formation.
  • Niacin (Vitamin B3): Chicken is a good source of niacin, important for energy metabolism.
  • Selenium: Chicken provides selenium, an antioxidant that supports immune function.
  • Phosphorus: Chicken and Parmesan cheese contribute phosphorus, important for bone health and energy metabolism.

Important Nutritional Considerations:

• Lean Protein Source: This dish is a good source of lean protein from chicken breast, which is beneficial for muscle maintenance and satiety.
• Moderate Fat Content: While the fat content is moderate due to olive oil and Parmesan, it’s important to consider portion sizes and balance it with other components of your meal.
• Sodium Content: The sodium content is moderate, primarily due to Parmesan cheese. If you are watching your sodium intake, you can potentially use a lower-sodium Parmesan cheese or reduce the amount of added salt, but this may slightly affect the flavor and crispness of the crust.
• Carbohydrate Conscious: Compared to traditional breaded and fried chicken, this Parmesan crusted version is relatively lower in carbohydrates, making it a potentially more suitable option for those monitoring carbohydrate intake.
• Overall Nutritional Value: Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken can be a part of a balanced diet, providing a good source of protein, some healthy fats (from olive oil), and various vitamins and minerals. Pair it with plenty of vegetables and whole grains for a complete and nutritious meal.

Remember that these nutrition facts are estimates. For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Enjoy this flavorful and moderately nutritious Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken as part of a balanced eating pattern.

Preparation Time for Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

One of the biggest advantages of Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken is its incredibly quick preparation time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you need a delicious dinner on the table fast. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation and cooking times:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Preheating Oven and Preparing Sheet Pan (2 minutes): Turning on the oven and lining the sheet pan takes just a couple of minutes.
• Chicken Preparation (5 minutes): Butterflying chicken breasts (optional), patting them dry, and placing them on the sheet pan is a quick process.
• Making Parmesan Crust Mixture (5 minutes): Combining the Parmesan cheese, Panko, olive oil, and seasonings in a bowl is very straightforward and fast.
• Coating Chicken (3 minutes): Brushing chicken with olive oil and pressing on the Parmesan crust mixture is also a quick and efficient step.

Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

• Baking (20-25 minutes): Baking time in the oven is approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts and your oven’s performance. This is mostly hands-off time, allowing you to prepare side dishes or relax while the chicken bakes.

Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes

• From start to finish, including both preparation and cooking, Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken takes only about 35-40 minutes. This makes it an exceptionally fast and convenient meal option, especially for weeknight dinners.

Time-Saving Tips:

• Pre-Grated Parmesan Cheese (with caution): While freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best crust, using pre-grated Parmesan can save a few minutes of prep time. However, be aware that pre-grated Parmesan may not melt and crisp as well due to added cellulose. If using pre-grated, opt for finely grated and use a good quality brand.
• Pre-Chopped Chicken (if available): If your grocery store sells pre-cut chicken cutlets (thinner chicken breasts), you can use those to save a couple of minutes on butterflying (if you choose to butterfly).
• Efficient Workflow: While the oven is preheating, you can prepare the Parmesan crust mixture and get the chicken ready on the sheet pan. This efficient workflow helps to maximize your time and get dinner on the table even faster.
• One-Pan Meal: Since this is a sheet pan recipe, you can roast vegetables alongside the chicken on the same pan (see “How to Serve” section for vegetable suggestions). This makes it a true one-pan meal, saving time on both cooking and cleanup.

With its incredibly short preparation and cooking times, Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken is an ideal recipe for busy individuals and families who want a delicious, healthy-ish, and home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a weeknight dinner hero that delivers big on flavor and convenience.

How to Serve Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes, making it easy to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire your dinner planning:

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic Sides:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Since it’s a sheet pan recipe, roasting vegetables alongside the chicken is a natural and convenient choice. Consider roasting broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini on the same sheet pan (or a separate one if needed). Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and maybe a sprinkle of garlic powder or Italian seasoning before roasting.
  • Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: Creamy mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash provide a comforting and classic side dish that complements the crispy chicken beautifully.
  • Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a simple and satisfying grain side.
• Fresh and Light Sides:
  • Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing and palate-cleansing side that balances the richness of the Parmesan chicken.
  • Caprese Salad: The fresh flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a Caprese salad complement the Italian-inspired flavors of the chicken.
  • Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a light dressing provides a cool and crisp contrast to the warm, crispy chicken.
• Pasta Sides:
  • Lemon Butter Pasta: A light and lemony pasta dish is a delicious pairing. Toss cooked pasta with butter, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley.
  • Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Enhance the Parmesan theme with a simple garlic Parmesan pasta.
  • Pesto Pasta: Pesto pasta adds a vibrant and herbaceous element to the meal.
• Bread and Grains:
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread for soaking up any pan juices or enjoying alongside the chicken and sides.
  • Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is a classic and always-welcome accompaniment to Parmesan chicken.

Plating Ideas:

• Simple and Elegant: Arrange a piece of Parmesan Crusted Chicken on a plate alongside a generous serving of your chosen side dish, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or Italian herbs.
• Family Style: Place the Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken on a serving platter surrounded by roasted vegetables or with bowls of side dishes like salad, pasta, or rice for everyone to serve themselves.
• Over Salad: Slice the Parmesan Crusted Chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens or a Caesar salad for a lighter and more complete meal.

Wine and Beverage Pairings:

• White Wine:
  • Pinot Grigio: A light and crisp Pinot Grigio pairs well with the chicken and Parmesan without overpowering it.
  • Sauvignon Blanc: A slightly more acidic Sauvignon Blanc can cut through the richness of the Parmesan and complement the savory flavors.
  • Chardonnay (unoaked): An unoaked Chardonnay can offer a balanced pairing with its fruitiness and acidity.
• Light Red Wine (optional):
  • Pinot Noir: A light-bodied Pinot Noir can work if you prefer red wine, especially if serving with roasted vegetables that have earthy notes.
• Non-Alcoholic Beverages:
  • Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing and palate-cleansing.
  • Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea is a good complement to the savory flavors.
  • Lemonade: Fresh lemonade provides a bright and refreshing contrast.

By considering these serving suggestions, side dish pairings, and beverage options, you can create a complete and satisfying meal around your delicious Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken. The versatility of this dish makes it easy to customize your meal to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Additional Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To consistently achieve perfectly cooked and incredibly delicious Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken, here are five additional tips to keep in mind and elevate your cooking experience:

1. Ensure Chicken Breasts are Even Thickness: Uniform thickness is key to even cooking for chicken breasts. If your chicken breasts are unevenly thick, they will cook at different rates, leading to some parts being dry while others are still undercooked. Butterflying thick breasts is one solution. Another is to gently pound thicker parts of the chicken breast to even them out using a meat mallet to a consistent thickness of about ¾ to 1 inch. This ensures all parts of the chicken cook through at the same time, resulting in juicy and evenly cooked chicken.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Sheet Pan: Avoid overcrowding the sheet pan when baking the chicken. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents the chicken from browning and the Parmesan crust from becoming crispy. Chicken pieces should be placed in a single layer with some space between them to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking. If you need to cook a larger batch of chicken, use two sheet pans instead of trying to cram everything onto one.
3. Press the Parmesan Mixture Firmly: When applying the Parmesan crust mixture to the chicken breasts, don’t just sprinkle it on top. Gently but firmly press the mixture onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well. This helps create a cohesive and substantial crust that won’t fall off during baking. Pressing it in also helps it to meld with the olive oil and chicken surface, promoting better browning and crispiness.
4. Monitor Browning and Adjust Oven if Needed: Keep an eye on the Parmesan crust while the chicken is baking. Ovens can vary in temperature, and the crust may brown faster in some ovens than others. If you notice the crust is browning too quickly or becoming too dark before the chicken is cooked through, you can loosely tent the sheet pan with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time. This will prevent the crust from burning while allowing the chicken to finish cooking.
5. Experiment with Flavor Variations: While the basic recipe is delicious, feel free to experiment with flavor variations to customize your Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
   • Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan crust mixture for a touch of heat.
   • Herbaceous: Use a different herb blend, such as Herbes de Provence, or add fresh chopped herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano to the crust mixture.
   • Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the Parmesan crust for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
   • Smoked Paprika: Incorporate smoked paprika into the crust mixture for a smoky depth of flavor.
   • Garlic Lovers: Add extra garlic powder or even some minced fresh garlic to the crust for a more intense garlic flavor.

By incorporating these additional tips into your cooking routine, you can consistently create perfectly cooked, flavorful, and crispy Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken every time. These tips address common cooking challenges and offer ways to enhance the recipe and tailor it to your personal preferences.

FAQ Section for Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To address common questions and ensure you have all the information you need to confidently prepare this Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe, here’s a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section:

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs are more forgiving and tend to remain juicier than breasts, even if slightly overcooked. The cooking time might need to be adjusted slightly, as thighs can take a bit longer to cook through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 170°F (77°C) for thighs. The Parmesan crust will also work beautifully with chicken thighs.

Q2: Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

A: While freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended for the best flavor and crispiness, you can use pre-shredded Parmesan in a pinch. However, be aware that pre-shredded Parmesan often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can hinder its melting and crisping capabilities. If using pre-shredded, opt for finely shredded and use a good quality brand. Freshly grated Parmesan will always yield a superior crust.

Q3: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: To make Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken gluten-free, you need to substitute the Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs or another gluten-free breadcrumb alternative. Many brands now offer gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs made from rice flour or other gluten-free ingredients. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free to make the entire dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Q4: Can I prepare the Parmesan crust mixture ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the Parmesan crust mixture ahead of time to save time on the day of cooking. You can mix together the Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, and seasonings and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a few hours or in the refrigerator for up to a day. If refrigerated, let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before using.

Q5: How do I store leftovers of Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

A: Store leftover Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the crust is crisp again (about 10-15 minutes), or you can reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat. Microwaving is also an option for reheating, but the crust may lose some of its crispness. Reheating in the oven or skillet is recommended for maintaining the best texture.

This FAQ section aims to address common questions and provide helpful tips to ensure your success in making this delicious Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to explore online cooking communities or consult recipe resources for further assistance. Enjoy your culinary creation!

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