Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about ½ inch thick
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour, seasoned with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1.5 cups (170g) grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- ½ cup (50g) Panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil, for pan-frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Pound chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin between plastic wrap. This ensures even cooking.
- In separate shallow dishes, prepare: the seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of Parmesan cheese and Panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the Parmesan-Panko mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place breaded chicken breasts in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from the skillet and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.