Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of chicken sizzling in the pan, and that’s exactly what happens when you make Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This dish has become a family favorite, especially during busy weeknights when I want something that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. One evening, after a long day at work, I wanted to treat my family to a delicious dinner without a lot of fuss. I remembered the stash of boneless chicken breasts in the fridge, and that’s when the idea hit me. I could whip up this delightful dish, and it would take only a little bit of prep and time!

As I started gathering the ingredients, I felt the excitement build. The idea of crispy, cheesy goodness covering juicy chicken was too good to pass up. I marinated the chicken in a tangy Italian dressing, which not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the meat tender and juicy. While it marinated, I prepped the crunchy topping that would soon crown each piece. My kitchen was filled with the enticing aroma of melting cheese and garlic as I cooked, and I knew we were in for a treat. Each bite of Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken was a hit with everyone at the table!

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something impressive for guests, this dish fits the bill perfectly. It’s simple enough for any home cook but deliveres an impressive plate that’ll wow your family. Let me share my tips and secrets with you to make this an instant favorite in your home too!

What You’ll Need for Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken

The ingredients for this dish are simple yet packed with flavor. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that mouthwatering experience. The star, of course, is the chicken, which absorbs all the delicious marinades and toppings. The cheeses add creaminess, while the Panko breadcrumbs deliver that perfect crunch. This recipe is a great reminder of how straightforward ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

• 4 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless – The main star of the dish, these provide a tender and juicy base.
• 1/4 cup Italian dressing – Adds a zesty flavor that infuses into the chicken while marinating.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Brings depth and richness to the marinade.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Enhances the flavor profile with aromatic herbs.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Provides a warm, savory note to the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder – Introduces a mild heat that complements the other spices.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper – Adds a touch of spiciness to balance the flavors.
• 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded – Melts beautifully on top, creating that gooey texture we love.
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella.
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing – Combines with the cheeses for an extra creamy topping.
• 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs – Provides the crispy crust that makes this dish irresistible.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted – Helps the breadcrumbs crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Putting Together Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken

As you embark on making Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll find that the steps are quite straightforward. The key lies in marinating the chicken to ensure it’s flavorful and tender. Once you have your ingredients ready, you’ll be amazed at how quickly everything comes together. Let’s dive into the steps to create this satisfying meal!

1. In a large bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will be the marinade, infusing the chicken with flavor. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined; you want every piece of chicken to soak up those delicious flavors.
2. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about half an inch. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Once done, add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least two hours or up to twenty-four hours in the refrigerator. The longer, the better to let those flavors penetrate.
3. When you’re ready to cook, heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil to the pan to prevent sticking. I recommend using olive oil for added flavor. Once the oil is hot, take the marinated chicken out of the bowl, letting any excess marinade drip off.
4. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook them for about six to seven minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. As they cook, you’ll notice the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.
5. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the cheesy topping. In a medium bowl, combine Mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and ranch dressing. Mix until well combined for a rich, cheesy mixture that will melt beautifully on top of the chicken.
6. In a separate small bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. This will ensure that the breadcrumbs become golden and crisp when baked. Stir until all the breadcrumbs are coated.
7. Once the chicken is cooked through, top each breast evenly with the cheese mixture, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to cover them well, as this is what gives you that fantastic crispy topping.
8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and set it to broil. Broil for three to four minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
9. Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Allow the Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite even more satisfying.
10. Serve the chicken hot, perhaps with a side salad or your favorite mashed potatoes. Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in every single bite!

Expert Tips about Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Making Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken is easy, but these expert tips will help you elevate your dish even further. Whether you want to tweak the flavor or ensure perfect cooking, these insights will be invaluable.

• Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within three days for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
• Pairing: This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with pasta for a complete meal.
• Variations: For a twist, try adding different herbs and spices to the marinade, such as cumin or smoked paprika to add warmth and smokiness.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix and match cheeses! Using a combination of cheddar and Mozzarella can give a different flavor profile while still keeping it creamy.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken, the options are endless! Here are some delicious ideas to round out your meal:

• With a Side Salad: Pair the chicken with a fresh garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The crisp vegetables complement the richness of the chicken perfectly.
• On a Bed of Rice: Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa. The grains absorb any juices that drip from the chicken, enhancing the meal.
• Satisfying Sides: Consider serving with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread for a hearty dinner experience.
• For A Crowd: This dish is great for gatherings! Slice the chicken into smaller pieces and serve it as an appetizer drizzled with ranch or marinara sauce.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or asparagus, balance the richness of the chicken and add a pop of color to your plate.
• Make-It-A-Meal: To turn this into a complete meal, serve it alongside pasta tossed with a light olive oil and garlic sauce for an Italian feel.
• Fun Presentation: For a fun twist, assemble the chicken in a sandwich with fresh greens, sliced tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a crispy chicken sandwich.

FAQ

Conclusion

Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken is truly a standout dish that brings together comforting flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. I encourage you to try this recipe at home; you won’t regret it!

Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a flavorful, easy weeknight dinner that your family will love. Juicy chicken is topped with a cheesy, crunchy crust that makes every bite irresistible. Make it tonight and enjoy a satisfying meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless
• 1/4 cup Italian dressing
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Skillet

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will be the marinade, infusing the chicken with flavor. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined; you want every piece of chicken to soak up those delicious flavors.
2. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about half an inch. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Once done, add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least two hours or up to twenty-four hours in the refrigerator. The longer, the better to let those flavors penetrate.
3. When you’re ready to cook, heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil to the pan to prevent sticking. I recommend using olive oil for added flavor. Once the oil is hot, take the marinated chicken out of the bowl, letting any excess marinade drip off.
4. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook them for about six to seven minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. As they cook, you’ll notice the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.
5. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the cheesy topping. In a medium bowl, combine Mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and ranch dressing. Mix until well combined for a rich, cheesy mixture that will melt beautifully on top of the chicken.
6. In a separate small bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. This will ensure that the breadcrumbs become golden and crisp when baked. Stir until all the breadcrumbs are coated.
7. Once the chicken is cooked through, top each breast evenly with the cheese mixture, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to cover them well, as this is what gives you that fantastic crispy topping.
8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and set it to broil. Broil for three to four minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
9. Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Allow the Crispy Mozzarella Parmesan Crusted Chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite even more satisfying.
10. Serve the chicken hot, perhaps with a side salad or your favorite mashed potatoes. Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in every single bite!

Notes

• Tip 1: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within three days for the best flavor and texture.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
• Tip 3: This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with pasta for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: For a twist, try adding different herbs and spices to the marinade, such as cumin or smoked paprika to add warmth and smokiness.
• Tip 5: Feel free to mix and match cheeses! Using a combination of cheddar and Mozzarella can give a different flavor profile while still keeping it creamy.

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Meet Juliet Sterling

Creating rich, complex flavors is my obsession, though I am just as passionate about capturing them through the lens. I develop recipes that taste like they simmered all day but are actually achievable for any home cook. I cooked and styled this dish to ensure the flavors are balanced and the presentation inspires you.