Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken – Creamy, Crispy, and Full of Flavor

Introduction
Looking for a dish that’s both simple and indulgent? This baked parmesan crusted chicken delivers juicy, tender chicken thighs topped with a creamy layer and a crispy parmesan crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners, this recipe is sure to impress your family and guests alike!

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 6–8 chicken thighs (boneless, skinless, or bone-in)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the creamy layer:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)

For the crust:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish or sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Arrange the chicken in a single layer on the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Layer

1. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard (if using).
2. Spread a thick, even layer of the creamy mixture over the top of each chicken thigh.

Step 4: Prepare the Parmesan Crust

1. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, melted butter, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the creamy layer on the chicken, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

1. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown.
2. For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Tips for Success

• For even crispier chicken, lightly spray the breadcrumb topping with cooking spray before baking.
• Swap panko breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion
This baked parmesan crusted chicken is a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to make yet packed with flavor. The creamy layer keeps the chicken moist, while the parmesan crust adds a delightful crunch. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Call to Action
Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Share your photos and feedback in the comments or tag us on social media. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next dinner—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!