Panko Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter)
(⅜ stick
- 1½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 boneless
skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- to tasteKosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1-2 dashes hot sauce
optional
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place a wire rack over a baking sheet and set aside.
- 2
Melt the butter in a medium nonstick skillet set over medium heat. Add in the Panko and toast, stirring often, until golden brown. Place the Panko in a large shallow bowl and set aside to cool.
- 3
Pat the chicken dry and slice it in half into two thinner cutlets.
- 4
Whisk the flour and a big pinch of salt and pepper in a second shallow bowl.
- 5
In a third shallow bowl, whisk the eggs, Dijon mustard, and optional hot sauce.
- 6
To the bowl with the Panko, add the Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika, and mix well.
- 7
Dredge the chicken in the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs onto the outside of the chicken to help it adhere. Place the chicken on the wire rack on the sheet pan.
- 8
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Serve and enjoy.
Panko Chicken Recipe
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 2 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving chicken that's delightfully crispy on the outside and tender within, without the deep-fried guilt? This Panko Chicken recipe delivers exactly that, transforming simple chicken breasts into a flavorful, satisfying meal that's perfect for any night of the week.
Why This Panko Chicken Works
The magic in this recipe lies in its seasoned Panko breadcrumb coating. Unlike traditional breadcrumbs, Panko's light, airy, and flaky texture ensures an incredibly crispy crust when baked. By incorporating melted butter with the Panko, you're setting the stage for a golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture, preventing the chicken from drying out. The blend of Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika infuses every bite with a savory, aromatic flavor.
What you'll experience with this Panko Chicken is a symphony of textures and tastes. Imagine biting into a wonderfully crunchy, golden crust that gives way to juicy, perfectly cooked chicken. The seasoning adds a rich, herbaceous note, with the Parmesan contributing a subtle nutty, salty depth. The optional touch of hot sauce adds a hint of warmth that brightens the overall flavor, making it a truly captivating dish that's surprisingly easy to achieve.
Customization & Variations
This Panko Chicken is incredibly versatile. While the original blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika is fantastic, feel free to experiment with your spice rack. A pinch of onion powder, dried oregano, or even a touch of smoked paprika can add new dimensions. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preference, or omit it entirely for a milder flavor. For a different cheesy note, try a finely grated Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan, which offers a sharper, saltier kick.
Serving & Context
This baked Panko Chicken is an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner, coming together in about 30 minutes from start to finish. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It's also fantastic sliced and served over rice or pasta.