Quick Overview
If you are looking for an easy and delicious meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner. This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with a crispy Parmesan crust and colorful vegetables all cooked together on one sheet pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also delivers fantastic flavors without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Enjoy a wholesome meal that’s packed with nutrients and tastes incredible!
Ingredient Breakdown
Chicken Breasts
For this recipe, you will need about 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 pounds). Choose fresh or thawed chicken for the best flavor and texture. Ensure they are evenly sized for even cooking.
Parmesan Cheese
Use about 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged varieties, giving your crust a rich flavor. The cheese creates a beautiful golden-brown crust when baked.
Olive Oil
You’ll need 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil helps in achieving that crispy texture while keeping the chicken moist during baking. It also adds a subtle flavor that enhances the dish.
Seasoning Mix
Prepare a seasoning mix using 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. These spices add depth to your chicken’s flavor profile without overwhelming it.
Vegetables
Select about 2 cups of mixed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. These colorful veggies complement the chicken beautifully while adding essential nutrients.
Step By Step Recipe: Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that desired crispy texture. This step is crucial for baking any sheet pan meal effectively.
Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after enjoying your delicious meal. A well-prepared surface allows for even cooking as well.
Coat the Chicken
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until combined. Dip each chicken breast into this mixture until well coated on both sides before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
Add the Cheese
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over each coated chicken breast. Press down gently so it adheres well to create that glorious crust once baked. Be sure to cover each piece thoroughly for maximum flavor.
Arrange Vegetables
Place your chopped vegetables around the coated chicken breasts on the baking sheet. Make sure they are spread out evenly; this allows them to roast properly alongside the chicken without steaming.
Bake in the Oven
Transfer your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye on the vegetables; they should become tender while still vibrant in color.
Rest Before Serving
Once cooked through, remove from the oven and let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows juices to redistribute throughout the chicken for enhanced moisture in every bite.
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner warm directly from the oven along with seasonal sides like quinoa or rice pilaf. Fresh herbs like parsley can be sprinkled on top for added freshness and presentation.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure everything is cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness without excess moisture buildup.
Reheating Guidelines
To reheat leftovers, place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—about 15 minutes should do it! Alternatively, use a microwave but be cautious not to dry out your delicious chicken.
This simple recipe guarantees satisfaction without requiring extensive culinary skills or time commitment! Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Mistakes to avoid
One common mistake when preparing Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is overcrowding the pan. If you place too many ingredients on the sheet pan, they won’t cook evenly. This can lead to soggy vegetables and undercooked chicken. Always leave space between the pieces so they can roast properly.
Another frequent error is not seasoning the chicken adequately. The Parmesan crust is delicious, but it needs a solid foundation of flavor. Make sure to season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any additional spices before applying the crust for optimal taste.
Using frozen ingredients without thawing is another pitfall. Frozen vegetables release moisture during cooking, which can make your dish watery. Always use fresh or properly thawed vegetables to ensure a crisp texture in your meal.
Not preheating your oven can also ruin this dish. A properly heated oven is essential for achieving that golden crust on your chicken. Take the time to preheat your oven to ensure even cooking throughout.
Finally, neglecting to check internal temperatures can be risky. Undercooked chicken poses health risks, so always use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Tips and tricks
To achieve the best results with your Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner, consider marinating your chicken beforehand. A simple marinade using olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs can infuse flavor into the chicken before it gets coated in Parmesan. Aim for at least 30 minutes of marination time; longer if you have it.
Choosing the right type of Parmesan cheese also matters. Freshly grated cheese will melt better and create a more flavorful crust than pre-packaged options. If possible, buy a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself for superior taste and texture in your dish.
When selecting vegetables, opt for those that cook at similar rates as chicken. Vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli work well because they roast beautifully and complement the flavors of the chicken perfectly. Avoid denser vegetables like carrots or potatoes unless you par-cook them first.
To add extra crunch to your crust, mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese before applying it to the chicken. This combination will create a delightful texture that enhances each bite while providing an appealing golden color when baked.
Lastly, let your sheet pan dinner rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven before serving. This resting period allows juices to redistribute within the chicken, ensuring moist and tender meat that everyone will love.
Suggestions for Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
For an added layer of flavor in your Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner, consider incorporating fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the crust mixture. Chopped fresh herbs add a vibrant touch that enhances both aroma and taste.
Pairing this meal with a light salad makes for an excellent balance against the richness of the cheese crust. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the dish wonderfully without overwhelming it.
If you’re looking to switch things up occasionally, try adding seasonal vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes that roast quickly and offer vibrant colors on your plate. These additions not only improve presentation but also provide diverse flavors that enhance the overall meal experience.
Don’t forget about leftovers! This dish reheats well, making it perfect for lunchboxes or quick dinners throughout the week. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator and reheat gently in an oven or microwave when ready to enjoy again.
Lastly, consider serving this meal with a side of garlic bread or roasted potatoes for those who want something extra hearty alongside their chicken dinner experience.
FAQs
What sides go well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?
Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs beautifully with various sides such as roasted asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes. Fresh salads are also great options; try arugula or mixed greens tossed in light vinaigrette to balance out rich flavors from the dish itself.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While Parmesan is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for different flavor profiles. Each cheese brings its unique taste and texture; just be aware that melting properties may vary during baking!
How long does this dinner take to prepare?
Typically, preparing a Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time followed by around 25-30 minutes of baking time depending on your oven’s efficiency and thickness of chicken pieces used.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish is fantastic for meal prep since it stores well in airtight containers once cooled completely after cooking. Reheat portions easily throughout busy weeks without losing quality or flavor!
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! To create a gluten-free version of this recipe substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives made from rice flour or almond flour while keeping all other ingredients unchanged.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t browning?
If you notice that your chicken isn’t browning as desired near completion time try broiling briefly at high heat until achieving desired golden color—watch closely since broilers work fast!
Summary
In summary, preparing a delicious Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner involves avoiding common mistakes like overcrowding ingredients and neglecting seasoning while utilizing helpful tips such as marinating meat beforehand and choosing appropriate vegetable pairings ensures great results every time! Enjoy experimenting with different sides while maximizing flavor through clever techniques that will impress everyone at your table!
Print
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This delicious Parmesan Crusted Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is a one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breast coated in a crispy parmesan crust, accompanied by vibrant roasted vegetables. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups baby carrots
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the egg wash and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. On a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the coated chicken breasts.
5. In a separate bowl, toss the broccoli and carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them around the chicken on the baking sheet.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and vegetables are tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
You can customize this recipe by using your favorite vegetables or adding more seasonings to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 30g
Keywords: chicken, sheet pan dinner, easy dinner, parmesan crusted