Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Jen Clarke
This incredible chicken has a few steps but it is so yummy — it is worth the extra work! My family LOVES it every time I make it.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course entree
Servings 6 -8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless/skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt/pepper to taste
  • 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil optional
  • Marinade: Olive Garden Signature Italian Dressing 16 oz bottle

PARMESAN CRUST

  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese chopped/torn into pieces
  • 1/2 cup Provolone cheese chopped/torn into pieces
  • 6 Tablespoons Ranch
  • 4 Tablespoons melted butter
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder

Instructions
 

NIGHT BEFORE:

  • Use a meat tenderizer to pound it to about 1⁄2 inch thickness. Place the chicken in a gallon freezer bag, remove the air & seal.
  • Sprinkle each side of the chicken lightly with salt & pepper, if desired.
  • Place the chicken in a new freezer bag and add the marinade. Remove as much air as possible, seal
  • Refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes (but I prefer overnight).

INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Preheat the oven to a low broil (450 degrees)
  • If desired, heat 3 TBSP of vegetable in a skillet over medium-high heat. (A cast iron skillet will provide the best sear.)
  • The oil can be skipped if desired – it is not really needed.
  • Sear the chicken on each side for 4-5 minutes. Refrain from moving the chicken around as it sizzles, it will hinder the nice golden sear color.
  • If needed, remove any extra juices from the pan to get a better sear on your chicken.
  • Once each side of the chicken is a nice, golden brown and the middle is cooked, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet.
  • As the chicken is cooking, prepare the Parmesan Crust.
  • Combine the Parmesan, Provolone and Ranch dressing in a microwave safe bowl. Stir to combine and then microwave in 30 second increments, stirring in between, until melted.
  • Once the chicken is done being seared, add the cheese mixture to the top of the chicken.
  • Broil for about 3 minutes, until the cheese starts to brown slightly.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder & panko breadcrumbs. Add it on top of the chicken & cheese mixture.
  • Broil for 1 more minute, until the breadcrumbs begin to brown slightly (watch closely!)
Keyword holiday, weeknight meals
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