Ingredients
For Breading:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- ⅔ cup seasoned Italian breadcrumbs (such as Progresso)
- ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, chives, or rosemary)
Main Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ lb / 680 g), pounded ¼-inch (6 mm) thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three large shallow bowls for an assembly line. Place the flour in the first bowl. Beat the eggs in the second bowl until well combined. In the third bowl, mix together the seasoned Italian breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs.
- Bread the Chicken: Season each pounded chicken breast evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Dredge a chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess for a light coating. Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring even coating and letting excess drip off. Finally, thoroughly coat the chicken in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, turning a few times to ensure full coverage. Place the breaded chicken on a plate and repeat with the remaining pieces.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat until hot. Carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side until golden brown. Flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the crust is crispy.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the pan and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Notes
- Pounding the chicken to an even ¼ inch thickness ensures quick, even cooking and tenderness.
- Use fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano for the best flavor and authentic crust texture.
- Fresh herbs can be varied to suit your preference or what you have on hand; thyme and parsley work exceptionally well.
- Check chicken internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) when done.
- Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
