Introduction
The Baked Panko Chicken recipe offers a delightful and crispy alternative to fried chicken, making it a healthier yet equally delicious main course. Coated with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and flavorful seasonings, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether served alongside vegetables or a fresh salad, this baked chicken is sure to impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons olive oil (or cooking spray, for crisping the panko)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20–25 minutes
Total Time
30–35 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Panko Mixture: In a shallow bowl or large plate, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano or Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the seasonings.
3. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Spread a thin, even layer of mayonnaise over both sides of each chicken breast.
4. Coat the Chicken: Press each mayonnaise-coated chicken breast firmly into the panko mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece. To help the panko crisp up, lightly drizzle the tops with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray.
6. Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the panko coating is golden and crispy and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. Optional Crisping: For an extra crispy finish, turn the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
8. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 3–5 minutes. Serve whole or sliced alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Notes
– Always pat the chicken dry before adding the mayonnaise and panko mixture to ensure better adhesion and crispiness.
– Season liberally for the best flavor.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
– For enhanced crispiness, consider toasting the panko breadcrumbs in a dry skillet for 1 to 2 minutes before adding the seasonings.
This crispy Baked Panko Chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers on flavor and texture, making it a fantastic choice for your next meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Panko Mixture
In a shallow bowl or large plate, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano or Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the seasonings.
3. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Spread a thin, even layer of mayonnaise over both sides of each chicken breast.
4. Coat the Chicken
Press each mayonnaise-coated chicken breast firmly into the panko mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece. To help the panko crisp up, lightly drizzle the tops with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray.
6. Bake
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the panko coating is golden and crispy and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. Optional Crisping
For an extra crispy finish, turn the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
8. Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 3–5 minutes. Serve whole or sliced alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Notes
Pat the Chicken Dry
Always pat the chicken dry before adding the mayonnaise and panko mixture to ensure better adhesion and crispiness.
Season Liberally
Season liberally for the best flavor.
Use a Meat Thermometer
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Enhance Crispiness
For enhanced crispiness, consider toasting the panko breadcrumbs in a dry skillet for 1 to 2 minutes before adding the seasonings.
Cook Techniques
Preheating
Preheating the oven ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and helps achieve a crispy coating.
Coating
Using mayonnaise as a base for the panko allows for better adhesion and enhances moisture in the chicken.
Even Coating
Press the chicken firmly into the panko mixture to ensure an even coating on all sides for maximum crunch.
Spacing
Leaving space between each chicken breast on the baking sheet allows hot air to circulate, aiding in crispiness.
Baking
Bake at a consistent temperature of 400°F to achieve a golden, crispy exterior while ensuring the chicken cooks through.
Broiling
Using the broil setting at the end adds an extra crunch to the coating, but should be monitored to avoid burning.
Letting Rest
Allowing the cooked chicken to rest is important for the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender texture.
FAQ
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko provides a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or mustard can work as alternatives if you’re looking for a lower-fat option.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure the mayonnaise is also gluten-free.
Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?
Yes, marinating the chicken can add extra flavor, but ensure to dry it before coating for better adherence.
What sides pair well with baked panko chicken?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement this dish nicely.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
The Baked Panko Chicken is a simple yet delightful dish that combines the crunch of panko breadcrumbs with the juiciness of chicken breasts. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also yields a mouthwatering, crispy texture that will satisfy any palate. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that will impress your family and friends.
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