There’s something irresistible about the golden crunch of Parmesan crusted chicken with basil aioli. Picture this: juicy chicken, perfectly coated in a crispy, cheesy crust that crackles delightfully with each bite. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making you feel like a culinary wizard. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and makes your heart sing.
Every time I whip up this recipe, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air and everyone fought over the last piece of chicken. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions where you want to impress without breaking a sweat. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Parmesan crusted chicken with basil aioli is quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights
- The flavor profile is a delightful blend of savory cheese and fragrant herbs
- Its stunning presentation will make you feel like a master chef at any dinner table
- Perfectly versatile, you can serve it alongside pasta, salad, or even as a sandwich filling
I once made this dish for my friends’ potluck, and they insisted on taking leftovers home—proof of its deliciousness!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts depending on how many guests you’re serving; they should be fresh for the best flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for superior taste; the pre-packaged stuff just doesn’t cut it.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a delightful crunch; opt for plain panko so you can control the seasonings.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brings vibrant flavor; if unavailable, opt for dried but use less since it’s more concentrated.
Garlic Powder: This adds depth; feel free to increase or decrease based on your garlic love level.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil to enhance the richness of the breading.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skimp here unless you’re on a salt-reduction mission.
Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the aioli beautifully; fresh lemon juice is always preferred.
Mayo: Use regular mayo for creaminess in the aioli—it’s what dreams are made of!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper generously.
Prepare your breading by mixing grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and finely chopped fresh basil in a bowl until evenly combined.
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken pieces ensuring they’re well-coated before pressing them into the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered. Place them into your prepared baking dish.
Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the coating turns golden brown and crispy.
While the chicken bakes away, whip up your basil aioli! In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and finely chopped basil. Stir until creamy and smooth.
Taste-test your aioli; if you love garlic like I do, consider adding more garlic powder! Serve alongside your crispy chicken for dipping goodness.
Enjoy every crispy bite of this decadent Parmesan crusted chicken with basil aioli! It’s bound to become a household favorite faster than you can say “yum.”
You Must Know
- This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli brings a delightful crunch and savory flavor to your table
- The aromas of baked chicken and fresh basil will have everyone asking for seconds
- This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests on special occasions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it heats, prepare the chicken by breading it, then bake until golden brown and cooked through for optimal flavor and texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken breast for thighs or add spices like paprika or garlic powder to the breadcrumbs. You can also mix in grated cheese for an extra cheesy crust.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven until warmed through, maintaining that crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for the aioli to enhance its flavor profile significantly
- Allow the chicken to rest after baking for juicier results
- Don’t rush the breading; let it set before cooking to avoid sogginess
Cooking this dish reminds me of a dinner party when everyone raved about my cooking skills—definitely a confidence booster!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before breading and cooking.
How can I make the aioli spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complement the chicken beautifully.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli
Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli is a delightful dish that combines juicy, tender chicken with a crispy, cheesy crust. Each bite bursts with flavor, enhanced by the creamy basil aioli that makes it irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at special occasions, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and fresh basil.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, ensuring it's well-coated. Press each piece into the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered and place in the baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and coating is golden brown.
- For the aioli, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, and remaining basil in a small bowl until smooth.
- Serve crispy chicken with basil aioli for dipping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with aioli (about 200g)
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: Feel free to swap chicken breasts for thighs for added juiciness. Add spices like paprika or cayenne for extra flavor in the crust. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in a preheated oven.
