Are you ready to transform your dinner routine with a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare? Say hello to Crisp Crusted Baked Chicken—a mouthwatering recipe that combines juicy chicken thighs with a golden, crunchy coating that will have your taste buds dancing! Perfect for a family meal or a cozy night in, this American classic promises to impress without the fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a satisfying meal that rivals your favorite restaurant dish. Dive into this recipe to discover the secrets to achieving that perfect crispy crust and juicy interior!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a crispy crust.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In another bowl, beat the two eggs until fully combined. This will serve as the binding agent for the breadcrumbs.
- Take each chicken thigh and season both sides with salt and pepper to taste. This enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- Dip each seasoned chicken thigh into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off before proceeding to the next step.
- Next, dredge the egg-coated chicken thigh in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating on all sides. Repeat this process for all four chicken thighs.
- Place the coated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking and crisping.
- Once all the chicken thighs are on the baking sheet, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy. An internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is recommended for safe consumption.
- After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Serve the crisp crusted baked chicken hot, accompanied by your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Preheat the Oven: Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking and a perfectly crispy crust on your chicken.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: For an even thicker and crunchier crust, consider dipping the chicken thighs back into the beaten eggs and then again into the breadcrumb mixture.
- Spacing is Key: Make sure to space the chicken thighs apart on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate, promoting even cooking and crispiness.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Pair with Sides: Serve your crispy chicken with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 180mg
