The aroma of Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli wafts through the air, making your stomach rumble and your mouth water. Imagine that crispy, golden crust giving way to tender chicken, all perfectly complemented by a zesty basil aioli that dances on your taste buds. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumbs?
- How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Every bite of this dish tells a story of family dinners filled with laughter and the clinking of forks. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a festive gathering, this recipe never fails to impress. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience that will leave you craving more! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation ensures you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner
- With its rich flavors and delightful crunch, it’s sure to be a family favorite
- The eye-catching presentation makes it perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home
- Plus, you can easily swap in different herbs to create your own twist on this classic dish
I still remember the first time I served this at a family gathering; everyone was raving about it for days!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 pieces depending on how hungry everyone is; they cook evenly and easily absorb flavors.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is key for that rich flavor and beautiful melt; avoid the pre-grated stuff if possible.
Bread Crumbs: Choose panko for extra crunch; they give that delightful texture we all crave.
Fresh Basil: Select vibrant green leaves for the best flavor; nothing beats fresh herbs in aioli.
Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayonnaise for creaminess that complements the basil beautifully; trust me on this one.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed gives the perfect zing; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for adding depth; I prefer using garlic powder over fresh to keep it simple.
Paprika: Opt for smoked paprika to add an extra layer of flavor; it’s a game-changer in many dishes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli
Prep Your Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
Make the Breading Mixture: In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined for that irresistible crust.
Dredge the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Press firmly to ensure the coating sticks well—this step is crucial for that crunchy texture.
Bake It Up!: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen will smell divine!
Create Your Basil Aioli: While the chicken bakes, whisk together mayonnaise, finely chopped fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth and creamy—taste test and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve & Enjoy!: Once your chicken has reached golden perfection, remove it from the oven and serve hot alongside your homemade basil aioli. Pair it with some roasted veggies or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal!
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli is not just another dish—it’s an experience! From its crunchy exterior to its juicy interior paired with zesty aioli, every bite will transport you straight to culinary heaven. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- The secret to a crispy Parmesan crust lies in the double coating of breadcrumbs
- Always let the chicken rest before cooking for a juicier result
- A touch of garlic powder can elevate the flavor profile significantly
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken in a hot skillet for that irresistible crust, then transfer it to the oven to finish cooking evenly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out basil for parsley or add some chili flakes for a spicy kick. Experimenting with different herbs can transform your dish.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to uniform thickness
- Use fresh Parmesan instead of pre-grated for better flavor
- Let your chicken rest post-cooking to keep it juicy and tender
Sharing this recipe reminds me of the first dinner party I hosted, where my friends devoured every last bite and begged for seconds—it felt so rewarding!
FAQ
Can I use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Skinless thighs will add rich flavor and moisture to your dish.
Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free varieties made from rice or corn.
How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F at the thickest part of the chicken.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Parmesan Crusted Chicken, perfectly paired with a zesty Basil Aioli. This dish features a crispy, golden crust that gives way to juicy chicken, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. With an easy preparation process and delightful taste, this recipe will become a family favorite you’ll crave again and again!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Place coated chicken on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- While baking, whisk together mayonnaise, basil leaves, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the aioli.
- Once chicken is done, serve hot with basil aioli on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with aioli (200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
