Introduction
Are you looking for a dinner that is crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor? Mozzarella-crusted chicken is the perfect meal! It’s simple to make, tastes amazing, and pairs well with many sides. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe won’t disappoint.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about mozzarella-crusted chicken, including its ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, and tips for making the best version at home.
What is mozzarella-crusted chicken?
Mozzarella-crusted chicken is a dish where chicken breasts are coated with a layer of mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings before being baked or pan-fried to perfection. The cheese creates a deliciously crispy and golden crust while keeping the chicken juicy and tender.
Ingredients for Mozzarella-Crusted Chicken
You only need a few basic ingredients to make this mouthwatering dish:
For the chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying, if using stovetop method)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping or topping)
- Red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
How to Make Mozzarella-Crusted Chicken
Follow these simple steps to make crispy and cheesy mozzarella-crusted chicken:
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking.
- Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
- In one bowl, beat the egg.
- In another bowl, mix mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Coat the Chicken
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Press the chicken into the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, making sure the crust sticks well.
4. Cooking Methods
Baking Method:
- Place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
Pan-Frying Method:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown.
- If needed, transfer to the oven for a few minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
- Serve with marinara sauce on the side or drizzled over the top.
What to Serve with Mozzarella-Crusted Chicken
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some great options:
- Pasta – Serve with spaghetti and marinara sauce for an Italian-style meal.
- Roasted Vegetables—A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness.
- Mashed Potatoes—Creamy mashed potatoes balance the crispy texture of the chicken.
- Garlic Bread—Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Salad—A light green salad with balsamic dressing adds freshness to the meal.
Variations of Mozzarella-Crusted Chicken
Want to try something different? Here are some fun variations:
- Spicy Mozzarella Chicken – Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Mozzarella-Stuffed Chicken—Instead of crusting, stuff the chicken with mozzarella and bake.
- Air Fryer Mozzarella Chicken— Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes in an air fryer for a healthier version.
- Keto-Friendly Mozzarella Chicken—Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a low-carb version.
- Mozzarella Chicken Parmesan—Top with marinara sauce and extra cheese before baking for a Chicken Parmesan twist.
Tips for Making the Best Mozzarella-Crusted Chicken
- Use thin chicken breasts—they cook faster and stay juicy.
- Press the Coating Firmly—Helps the crust stay on while cooking.
- Let the chicken rest before cutting—this keeps the juices inside.
- Use fresh mozzarella—for extra gooey and delicious results.
- Don’t overcook—use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Fun Facts About Mozzarella-Crusted Chicken
- Mozzarella cheese comes from Italy and was originally made from buffalo milk.
- Chicken and cheese combinations are found in many cuisines worldwide.
- The crispy texture comes from the perfect balance of cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Many restaurants now serve mozzarella-crusted chicken as a gluten-free option using almond flour.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make mozzarella-crusted chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
3. How do I reheat mozzarella-crusted chicken?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to keep it crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
4. Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! Parmesan, cheddar, or provolone can be used instead of mozzarella for different flavors.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
Mozzarella-crusted chicken is an easy, cheesy, and satisfying dinner that everyone will love. Whether you bake it, pan-fry it, or try a creative variation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Now that you have the perfect recipe and tips, why not try making mozzarella-crusted chicken tonight? It’s crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor—your taste buds will thank you!