If you’re looking for a meal that’s simple to make yet tastes like a restaurant favorite, these Parmesan Baked Chicken Chops are the answer. They feature tender, juicy chicken coated in a golden parmesan crust that’s crispy on the outside and perfectly seasoned throughout. The combination of garlic, herbs, and cheese creates an irresistible aroma as they bake, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering anticipation. I tried using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones for extra crunch, and the result was fantastic—light, crispy, and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. The oven does most of the work, leaving you with golden, crispy chicken that’s both hearty and wholesome. The parmesan crust locks in moisture, so every bite is juicy. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe—serve it with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
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Parmesan Baked Chicken Chops: Crispy, Juicy, and Packed with Flavor
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Parmesan Baked Chicken Chops are tender, juicy chicken chops coated in a crispy parmesan and breadcrumb crust, baked to golden perfection. This easy and flavorful dish combines the savory taste of Parmesan cheese with Italian herbs for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for drizzling)
- Optional: chopped parsley and lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Set aside.
- In another bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken chop into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to adhere the coating.
- Place the coated chicken chops on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil or melted butter for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and crisp texture.
- If your chicken chops are thick, lightly pound them to even thickness for uniform cooking.
- You can substitute chicken breasts or thighs if preferred.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken chops (boneless or bone-in) – The star of the recipe. Choose thick, meaty chops for the juiciest result. Pat them dry before coating for the crispiest finish.
Parmesan cheese – Adds a rich, savory flavor and forms a crispy crust when baked. Freshly grated parmesan works best for texture and taste.
Breadcrumbs or panko – Helps create that satisfying crunch. Panko gives a lighter, airier coating, while regular breadcrumbs make it slightly denser.
Garlic powder – Infuses the coating with subtle depth and enhances the cheese’s flavor.
Paprika – Adds a gentle smokiness and golden color to the crust.
Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil that complements the parmesan perfectly.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to balance all the flavors.
Olive oil or melted butter – Keeps the coating crisp and helps it brown beautifully in the oven.
Eggs – Used for dredging, ensuring the coating sticks firmly to the chicken chops.
Fresh parsley – Optional, for a vibrant garnish that adds color and freshness when serving.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In another, combine parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Dip each chicken chop into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the parmesan mixture, pressing gently so it adheres well. Arrange the coated chops on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over each piece or lightly spray with cooking oil to help with browning.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil the chops for the final 2 minutes. Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation takes around 15 minutes, while baking time is about 25 minutes. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving for optimal juiciness.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy. You can also freeze cooked chops for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Herb-Butter Crust – Mix melted butter with chopped parsley and thyme to brush over the coating before baking for extra flavor.
Spicy Parmesan Kick – Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix for a hint of heat.
Lemon-Garlic Twist – Add lemon zest to the coating and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chops before serving.
Cheddar Blend – Combine parmesan with sharp cheddar for a richer, cheesier crust.
Low-Carb Version – Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour for a keto-friendly option that’s just as crispy.
Ranch Coating – Mix a packet of ranch seasoning into the breadcrumbs for a tangy twist.
Italian Classic – Top baked chops with marinara sauce and mozzarella for a Chicken Parmesan-style variation.
Smoky BBQ Fusion – Swap paprika for smoked paprika and drizzle with BBQ sauce before serving.
Garlic-Herb Butter Drizzle – Melt butter with minced garlic and pour over the baked chops for added richness.
Herbed Yogurt Marinade – Marinate chicken in Greek yogurt, garlic, and herbs for an hour before coating—adds tenderness and flavor depth.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken chops?
Yes, but they may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
How do I keep the coating from falling off?
Press the coating firmly onto the chicken and avoid flipping too early during baking.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
What side dishes go well with these chops?
They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.
Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese?
You can, but freshly grated parmesan melts and browns much better.
How can I make the coating extra crispy?
Use panko breadcrumbs and lightly spray with oil before baking.
Is it okay to marinate the chicken first?
Yes, a simple buttermilk or yogurt marinade enhances tenderness.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of traditional ones.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) ensures it’s done safely.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, coat the chops and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking.
Conclusion
Parmesan Baked Chicken Chops are a true comfort dish that’s as easy as it is delicious. With a crispy, golden crust and juicy center, they deliver a perfect balance of flavor and texture in every bite. Ideal for busy weeknights or family dinners, this recipe brings gourmet taste with minimal effort. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again—it’s a classic that never disappoints.
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