Ingredients
Butter Mixture
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Parmesan Coating
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground pepper
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced into cutlets)
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley or basil (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine butter, olive oil, and garlic powder. Microwave for 30 seconds until the butter melts, then whisk until smooth to create a flavorful base for coating the chicken.
- Mix Parmesan Coating: In a second shallow bowl, whisk together panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and ground pepper until well combined to form the crispy crust.
- Butterfly Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and slice horizontally through the center using a chef’s knife, opening it like a book to create two thinner cutlets for even cooking.
- Coat Chicken: Dip a chicken piece into the butter mixture, then press into the Parmesan mixture on all sides to adhere the coating. Place the coated pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining pieces.
- Bake Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through to ensure even browning. Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached at least 165°F for safe consumption.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the cooked chicken for a fresh herbal note. Serve immediately while hot and crisp.
Notes
- Butterflying the chicken breasts helps them cook evenly and quickly.
- Using panko breadcrumbs ensures a light, crispy crust.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it’s safe to eat.
- Chopped fresh herbs add a pop of color and flavor but can be omitted if desired.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat