Easy Hellmann's Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Tonight
hellmann's parmesan crusted chicken recipe offers a delightful combination of tender chicken and a crispy, flavorful parmesan crust. A simple yet satisfying meal.
Equipment
- Baking dish (9x13 inch recommended)
- Medium Mixing Bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Meat mallet (optional, for thinning chicken breasts)
- Meat Thermometer
- Spatula or Spoon
- Parchment paper (optional, for lining the baking dish)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup Hellmann's mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 400F (200C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Step 2: Prepare the Chicken: If chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, pound them gently to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking.
- Step 3: Mix the Coating: In a medium bowl, combine Hellmann's mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add Italian seasoning, if desired, for an extra layer of flavor. Stir until well combined.
- Step 4: Coat the Chicken: Spread the Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Step 5: Bake the Chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the parmesan crust is golden brown and crispy. Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C).
- Step 6: Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and juicy chicken. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes. Optional Tips and Substitutions: For a lower-fat option, use light mayonnaise and part-skim Parmesan cheese. Breadcrumbs can be added to the parmesan mixture for an extra crispy crust. Adjust seasonings to personal preference.
Notes
Variations
hellmann’s parmesan crusted chicken recipe lends itself well to numerous adaptations.
- Ingredient Swaps: Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. Plain Greek yogurt can substitute for mayonnaise, albeit with a slightly tangier result. Consider using almond flour instead of Parmesan for a gluten-free crust alternative.
- Regional Styles: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and basil for an Italian-inspired variation. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika evokes a Spanish influence. Consider a Southwestern twist by including chili powder and cumin.
- Dietary Adjustments: To reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium Parmesan cheese and limit the addition of salt. Replacing mayonnaise with avocado offers a healthier fat profile. To lower fat content, use light mayonnaise and part-skim Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
This parmesan crusted chicken proves highly versatile. It complements both casual weeknight meals and more formal gatherings.
- Weeknight Dinner: Serve with a quick side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Elegant Occasions: Pair with roasted asparagus and creamy risotto for a more sophisticated presentation.
- Lunch Option: Slice the chicken and use it in sandwiches or salads for a protein-packed midday meal.
- Meal Prep: Prepare a batch of chicken breasts in advance and portion them out for easy lunch or dinner options throughout the week.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of the parmesan crusted chicken.
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350F (175C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option, but it may affect the crispness of the crust.
- Freezing: While not ideal (as freezing can alter the texture of the crust), cooked chicken can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese? Pre-shredded Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which can inhibit melting and crisping. Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for optimal results.
- Question 2: The crust isn’t getting crispy enough. What can I do? Ensure the oven temperature is accurate and that the chicken isn’t overcrowded in the baking dish. For added crispness, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Question 3: Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time? The chicken can be coated with the Parmesan mixture up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to bake it fresh for the best texture.
- Question 4: Is it important to rest the chicken after baking? Yes, resting the chicken allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat. A resting period of 5-10 minutes is recommended.