Cheesecake Factory’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken combines tender chicken breasts with a crispy, savory parmesan crust for an irresistible texture and flavor combination.
I love how versatile this dish is – serve it with pasta, salad, or veggies for a complete meal.
Ok you know how I love to share my best tips up front:
Let the breaded chicken rest for 5 minutes before cooking to help the coating stick better.
To achieve that perfect golden-brown crust, use a mix of butter and olive oil when pan-frying.
The butter adds richness while the oil prevents burning.
How to Make Cheesecake Factory Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
• 4 Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 cup Flour
• 3 Eggs
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (chopped)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Pound the chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
Step 2:
Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of grated Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs.
Step 3:
Season the flour with salt and pepper.
Step 4:
Dip each chicken breast in flour, then egg, and finally the Parmesan-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 5:
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 6:
Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7:
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Parmesan:
I always recommend using freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the crust.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
Check Internal Temperature:
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Let It Rest:
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to help the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
What to Serve with Cheesecake Factory Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
You can’t go wrong with classic mashed potatoes alongside your parmesan crusted chicken.
The smooth, buttery texture perfectly complements the crispy chicken coating.
Try adding roasted garlic or herbs to your mashed potatoes for an extra flavor boost.
Roasted Vegetable Medley
A colorful mix of roasted vegetables makes an excellent healthy side dish option.
You can use bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and broccoli tossed with olive oil and herbs.
The caramelized veggies provide a nice contrast to the rich, cheesy chicken.
Lemon Butter Angel Hair Pasta
Light and zesty angel hair pasta tossed in lemon butter sauce pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
The bright citrus notes cut through the richness of the parmesan crust.
Add some fresh herbs like parsley or basil to enhance the flavors even more.
Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad
For a unique twist, try serving your chicken with a grilled peach and arugula salad.
The sweetness of the peaches and peppery arugula create an unexpected but delicious combination.
Drizzle the salad with a honey balsamic dressing to tie all the flavors together.
Variations and Substitutions
Want to switch things up? You can easily customize this Cheesecake Factory favorite to suit your tastes or dietary needs!
Try swapping the chicken for pork chops or turkey cutlets for a delicious twist on the original.
If you’re looking to cut calories, use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular panko for added fiber and nutrients.
Cheese Options
Experiment with different cheese blends! Mix in some asiago or pecorino romano for a sharper flavor profile.
You can also try using a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re avoiding lactose or following a vegan diet.
Herb Variations
Feel free to play around with the herbs! Rosemary, thyme, or sage can add interesting flavors to the crust.
For a Mediterranean twist, incorporate some dried oregano and basil into your herb mixture.
Cooking Methods
While pan-frying gives a great crispy exterior, you can also bake this dish in the oven for a lighter version.
Air frying is another excellent option that yields crispy results with less oil.
How to Store Leftover Cheesecake Factory Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Refrigeration
You can store your leftover Cheesecake Factory Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
I recommend letting the chicken cool completely before transferring it to avoid condensation forming inside the container.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the leftover chicken for up to 2-3 months.
Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Portioning
If you have a large batch, consider dividing it into smaller portions before storing.
This way, you can easily grab just what you need without thawing the entire batch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Chicken
You’ll want to avoid cooking the chicken for too long, as it can lead to a dry and tough texture.
Keep a close eye on the cooking time and temperature to ensure the chicken stays juicy and tender.
Skimping on Seasoning
Don’t be shy with the herbs and spices – they’re key to achieving that signature Cheesecake Factory flavor!
I always make sure to generously coat the chicken with the herb and parmesan mixture for maximum taste.
Neglecting to Rest the Chicken
After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into it.
This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist final dish.
Cheesecake Factory Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- 4 Chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 1 cup Flour
- 3 Eggs
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley chopped
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of grated Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs.
- Season the flour with salt and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast in flour, then egg, and finally the Parmesan-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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