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Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken

A unique and tantalizing dish combining rich Parmesan cheese with zesty dill pickles, delivering a golden-brown crust with satisfying crunch and juicy tender interior.
Prep Time 50 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Midwest
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 4 chicken breasts boneless and skinless, pounded to ¾-inch thickness
  • 1 cup dill pickle juice for marinating
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs preferably seasoned
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated preferred
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup Cooking oil vegetable or canola, for frying

Equipment

  • Large bowl for marinating
  • Three shallow bowls for breading station
  • large skillet
  • meat thermometer
  • Paper towels
  • Plate or baking sheet
  • Meat mallet (optional, for pounding chicken)

Method
 

  1. If chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even ¾-inch thickness using a meat mallet for uniform cooking.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts and dill pickle juice. Ensure the chicken is fully submerged and allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Set up a three-bowl breading station. In the first bowl, place the flour seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. In a large skillet, heat about ½ cup of cooking oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Test the temperature by dropping in a breadcrumb; it should sizzle immediately and turn golden within 30 seconds.
  5. Remove each chicken breast from the marinade, shaking off any excess juice. Dredge it in the seasoned flour first, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing to adhere.
  6. Carefully place 2 breaded chicken breasts at a time into the hot oil. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part. If chicken browns too quickly, reduce heat to medium-low.
  7. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the excess oil.
  8. Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps retain its juices and ensures the meat remains tender.
  9. Serve immediately for the crispiest results, or let cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Notes

For a healthier option, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, instead of frying. Double-dip the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture for an extra-thick crust. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for best texture. Pound chicken to even ¾-inch thickness for uniform cooking.
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