Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the absolute joy that is *parmesan crusted chicken with basil aioli*! This dish is a flavor explosion that’s both crispy and creamy, making it perfect for any night of the week. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up! I remember the first time I made this for my family; they couldn’t get enough of the golden-brown chicken paired with that rich, herby aioli. It’s simple yet impressive, and perfect for both casual dinners or when you want to impress guests. You’re going to love it!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create your mouthwatering parmesan crusted chicken with basil aioli. I promise these ingredients come together beautifully!
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking, as it makes the whole process so much smoother and more enjoyable!
How to Prepare Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli
Get ready to dive into this super easy and delicious process of making parmesan crusted chicken with basil aioli! First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial because we want that chicken to bake perfectly crispy! If you want to elevate the flavor even more, consider marinating the chicken in a bit of lemon juice and herbs for about 30 minutes. While that’s soaking in, set up your breading station: have your flour, beaten eggs, and a mix of parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs ready to go. Trust me, this little prep makes everything flow smoothly!
Preparing the Chicken
Once your chicken is marinated (if you chose to do that), it’s time to start breading! First, take each chicken breast and coat it lightly in the flour. This step helps the egg stick better. Next, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Now for the fun part! Finally, roll the chicken in the cheesy breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press it in gently so you get a nice, thick layer of flavor. Keep the chicken on a plate while you bread the rest. It’s going to be so worth it!
Baking the Chicken
Now, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or sprayed with a bit of cooking spray. This keeps things from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze! Bake them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and the juices run clear. The aroma will be heavenly, and you won’t be able to resist peeking in!
Making the Basil Aioli
While the chicken is baking, let’s whip up that creamy basil aioli! In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise with 1/4 cup of freshly chopped basil, 1 clove of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Stir it all together until it’s nice and smooth. This aioli is the perfect complement to the crispy chicken, and you’ll want to slather it on every bite! Trust me, it’s going to elevate your meal to a whole new level!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to fall in love with this parmesan crusted chicken with basil aioli! Here are just a few that make this dish a must-try:
- Quick and easy preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can have this meal on the table in no time!
- Flavorful and satisfying: The crispy, cheesy coating combined with the creamy basil aioli creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners: This dish is not only delicious but also comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Great for meal prep: You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, saving you time and effort!
- Pairs well with various sides: Serve it with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or pasta – the options are endless!
Trust me, once you make this dish, you’ll be reaching for it again and again!
Tips for Success
To ensure your parmesan crusted chicken with basil aioli turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips! First, definitely consider marinating your chicken in lemon juice and herbs for at least 30 minutes. This adds a punch of flavor that you won’t want to miss! Also, don’t hesitate to adjust the garlic levels in the aioli to suit your taste—whether you like it bold or subtle, it’s all good! And remember, preheating your oven is key; a fully heated oven helps achieve that golden, crispy crust. Lastly, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to keep it juicy. You’ve got this!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to mix things up with this parmesan crusted chicken with basil aioli! For a bit of a kick, try adding some red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist. You can also experiment with different herbs—consider using fresh parsley, thyme, or oregano in place of basil for a unique flavor profile. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. And for a cheesy twist, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella on top of the chicken during the last few minutes of baking. Get creative and have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content for each serving of your delicious parmesan crusted chicken with basil aioli. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Protein: 30g
This dish is not only tasty but also packed with protein, making it a satisfying choice for your meals. Enjoy!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this scrumptious parmesan crusted chicken with basil aioli? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be juicier and add a different flavor. Just adjust the cooking time since they may take a little longer to cook through.
What can I serve with this dish?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a light salad, roasted veggies, or even pasta! You can’t go wrong with some garlic bread on the side either!
Can I make the basil aioli ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a couple of days. The flavors actually get better as they mingle!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It holds up well in the fridge, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.
Can I freeze the chicken?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the breaded chicken before baking. Just be sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil Aioli: 5 Joyful Steps
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Parmesan crusted chicken served with a creamy basil aioli.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mix of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Coat each chicken breast in flour, then dip in eggs, and finally coat with the Parmesan mixture.
- Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, basil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the aioli.
- Serve the chicken hot with basil aioli on the side.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before breading.
- Adjust the amount of garlic in the aioli to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with aioli
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: parmesan crusted chicken, basil aioli, chicken recipe, Italian cuisine