Name: Parmesan Basil Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 large egg, beaten; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Olive oil for frying

Jump to Recipe

Parmesan Basil Chicken delivers everything you crave in a comforting Italian dinner: crispy coating, tender meat, and bold herb flavor. This easy Parmesan Chicken recipe combines golden Breaded Chicken cutlets with fresh basil and nutty cheese for a meal that feels special yet comes together in just 35 minutes. Whether you serve it with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables, this dish brings classic Italian Dinner flavors straight to your table with simple pantry ingredients and straightforward steps.

Story

I started making Parmesan Basil Chicken on busy weeknights when I needed something reliable yet satisfying. Instead of preparing complicated sauces, I focused on texture and fresh flavor. By combining grated Parmesan with chopped basil, this Parmesan Basil Chicken creates a crispy crust that locks in moisture while adding depth. Unlike heavier versions of Parmesan Chicken, these Fried Cutlets stay light and crisp. Over time, Parmesan Basil Chicken became my go-to choice when I wanted comfort food that still tasted fresh and vibrant thanks to fragrant Basil.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Arrange three shallow bowls to create your breading station. Add flour to the first bowl. Pour the beaten egg into the second bowl. In the third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil, mixing thoroughly so the herbs distribute evenly.

Cooking Instructions

Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten egg, coating completely. Press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to create an even crust. Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, place the coated cutlets into the pan without overcrowding. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid skipping the pounding step, because uneven thickness leads to overcooked edges and undercooked centers. Do not rush the oil heating process; oil that is too cool creates soggy coating. Likewise, oil that is too hot burns the crust before the chicken cooks through. Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken so the coating stays intact while frying.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded cheese for richer taste and better melting. Chop the basil finely so it blends evenly into the crust. For extra crunch, mix a handful of crushed nuts into the breadcrumb mixture. If you want deeper Italian flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder to the flour before dredging.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Parmesan Basil Chicken immediately while the crust remains crisp. Pair it with spaghetti tossed in olive oil, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also slice the cutlets and layer them over Caesar salad or tuck them into toasted rolls for hearty sandwiches.

How to Store Leftovers

Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes to restore crispiness. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Parmesan Basil Chicken brings together crisp texture, tender meat, and bright herbal flavor in one dependable recipe. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you can prepare restaurant-quality Breaded Chicken at home in under 40 minutes. Try it once, and it will quickly become part of your regular dinner rotation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake Parmesan Basil Chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the cutlets at 400°F for about 20 to 25 minutes. Lightly spray them with olive oil before baking to help achieve a golden crust.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Boneless, skinless thighs work well and stay especially juicy. Pound them gently to even thickness and adjust cooking time as needed.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Make sure you pat the chicken dry before dredging, press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the surface, and avoid flipping the cutlets too early while frying.