The aroma of Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli wafts through the air like an irresistible invitation to a flavor party. Picture tender chicken, cloaked in a golden crust, paired with a creamy basil aioli that dances on your taste buds. It’s a dish that promises to turn any mundane weeknight into a gourmet experience. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes for chicken recipe.
This dish isn’t just for fancy occasions; it’s perfect for bustling weeknights or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the moment they took their first bite, their eyes lit up as if I had just performed magic in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Parmesan Crusted Chicken is quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy cooks
- The rich flavors and crispy texture create a delightful experience with every bite
- Its beautiful presentation makes it perfect for dinner parties and date nights alike
- Versatile enough to pair wonderfully with salads, pasta, or even as a sandwich filling
I still chuckle when I think about my friend who claimed he didn’t like chicken until he tried this recipe at my house and then promptly asked for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Fresh chicken breasts work best; aim for ones that are plump and firm for juicy results.
Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for maximum flavor and a delightful crust.
Bread Crumbs: Opt for panko breadcrumbs if you prefer an extra crunch on your chicken.
Fresh Basil: Select vibrant green basil leaves; they add a burst of flavor to the aioli.
Mayonnaise: The creaminess of mayonnaise helps achieve that dreamy aioli texture.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves offer boldness; adjust the quantity based on your love for garlic.
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the aioli and balances the richness.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over the chicken before baking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli
Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup later.
Prepare the chicken: Pat the boneless skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
Make the breading mixture: In a shallow bowl, mix together freshly grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. The blend should form a lovely mixture that will create a crunchy coating.
Coat the chicken: Dip each seasoned chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down firmly so it adheres well. Ensure every inch is covered because who doesn’t love crispy goodness?
Bake the chicken: Place your coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking dish and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Whip up basil aioli: While waiting on that scrumptious chicken, blend mayonnaise, fresh basil leaves, minced garlic cloves, and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Taste test and adjust seasoning if necessary—it’s your masterpiece!
Serve hot: Once baked to perfection, remove the chicken from the oven. Allow it to rest briefly before serving alongside your homemade basil aioli—a match made in culinary heaven!
And there you have it! Your house smells amazing; your family is eagerly waiting at the table; all that’s left is to dig in! Enjoy every crispy bite of this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli as you bask in compliments from everyone around you!
You Must Know
- Parmesan crusted chicken with basil aioli is a flavor-packed meal that impresses everyone
- The crispy coating and creamy dip create a delightful contrast that’s always a hit at dinner parties
- Plus, it pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F, then coat the chicken in the parmesan mixture before baking. This ensures even cooking and that delicious golden crust.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs in the aioli or add spices to the parmesan coating. A dash of smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven crunch.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a perfectly crispy chicken, press down firmly on the parmesan coating before baking
- Make sure your chicken breasts are of uniform size for even cooking
- Don’t skip resting time after cooking; it helps keep the juices locked in
The first time I made this dish, my friends were convinced I had taken a culinary class! Their compliments motivated me to experiment more with flavors and techniques.
FAQ
What sides pair well with Parmesan crusted chicken?
Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad balance well with this flavorful dish.
Can I use other cheeses for this recipe?
Yes, mozzarella or cheddar can be delicious alternatives for the crust.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options for the perfect crispy coating.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the crispy perfection of Parmesan Crusted Chicken paired with a creamy basil aioli. This dish transforms any weeknight into a gourmet affair, boasting tender chicken coated in a golden crust and a zesty dip that adds an explosion of flavor. Perfect for busy evenings or impressing guests, this recipe is both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry; season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to ensure it adheres.
- Place coated chicken in the baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, blend mayonnaise, basil leaves, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth for the aioli.
- Serve hot with the 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 (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 392
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
Keywords: For added flavor variation, consider incorporating smoked paprika into the breadcrumb mixture or using different herbs in the aioli. Ensure uniform chicken sizes for even cooking.
