Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with our mouthwatering Tender Chicken in a Nest recipe! Imagine crispy, golden-brown chicken breasts with a perfectly seasoned Parmesan breadcrumb coating that's so delicious, it'll have your family begging for seconds. This American-style dish is not just a meal; it's a comfort food masterpiece that combines simplicity with incredible flavor in just 45 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a nice golden color.
- Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with a bit of olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix them together until they are well blended. This mixture will create a flavorful coating for the chicken.
- In another bowl, crack the egg and whisk it until the yolk and white are fully combined. This will act as the binding agent for the breadcrumb mixture.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off before proceeding to the next step.
- Next, take the egg-coated chicken breast and press it into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly on both sides, pressing the crumbs into the meat to adhere well.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the chicken to help it brown during cooking.
- Once all the chicken breasts are in the dish, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- After the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender.
- Serve the Tender Chicken in a Nest hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee it's fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Breadcrumb Coating Secrets: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly into the chicken to create a thick, even layer that will turn beautifully crisp in the oven.
- Olive Oil Trick: Drizzling olive oil over the chicken before baking helps achieve a gorgeous golden-brown color and adds extra flavor.
- Resting Time Matters: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in those delicious juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Customize Your Coating: Feel free to add dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables to create a complete, balanced meal that's both delicious and nutritious.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
