Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something crispy, flavorful, and satisfying, but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This recipe for panko-breaded chicken breast is your answer. It's a quick, easy, and healthy meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are both easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set up your Breading Station
Create a simple assembly line: a shallow dish with flour, a shallow dish with beaten eggs, and a shallow dish with panko bread crumbs seasoned with paprika and garlic powder.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the panko bread crumbs, making sure it's completely covered. Gently press the panko to help it adhere.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve immediately with your favorite sides – roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes all pair wonderfully. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty finish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Panko Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy chicken instead of crispy.
- Use high-quality panko: Panko breadcrumbs have a coarser texture than regular breadcrumbs, which contributes to the extra crispiness.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the panko bread crumbs for a spicy kick.
- Parmesan Chicken: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the panko bread crumbs for a cheesy twist.
- Herb-Crusted Chicken: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the panko bread crumbs for an aromatic touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This quick and easy recipe for panko-breaded chicken breast is a great addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!