Baked Panko Chicken
Every time I make Baked Panko Chicken, I’m reminded of family dinners filled with laughter and good food. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, bringing everyone together around the table. The crispy texture from the panko breadcrumbs combined with that sweet honey drizzle makes it irresistible. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that I can whip up on a busy weeknight or serve to guests during a cozy gathering. Just the thought of that golden-brown chicken fresh out of the oven brings a smile to my face. When I first tried this recipe, I knew I had found something special. The crunchiness of the panko perfectly contrasts the juicy, tender chicken, making every bite a delightful experience. I love how it’s not just another chicken recipe; it’s a memorable dish that tells a story with each taste.
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
10 mins
15 mins
Easy
390 kcal
34 g
Paleo, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
20 g
Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan
Why This Baked Panko Chicken Stands Out
Crunchy Texture
The first thing that stands out about Baked Panko Chicken is its amazing crunch. The panko breadcrumbs create a light, crispy coating that elevates the chicken to a whole new level. It’s satisfying to bite into and gives that satisfying crunch we all love.
Sweet and Savory Balance
Then there’s the honey drizzle. It adds a sweet touch that balances the savory flavors of the chicken perfectly. When you drizzle that honey over the crispy coating, it creates a beautiful contrast that leaves you wanting more. It’s a sweet surprise that complements the dish beautifully.
Easy to Prepare
I adore this recipe because it’s so easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can make a delicious meal that feels gourmet. Even on hectic days, you can still serve up something that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Dish
This dish is versatile enough to pair with various sides. Whether it’s a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or fluffy rice, Baked Panko Chicken works beautifully with whatever you have on hand. You can customize it to fit your family’s preferences, making it a go-to for any occasion.
Kid-Friendly
Let’s face it, kids love crispy food! This dish is a hit among children, making it an excellent choice for family dinners. Watching my kids devour their plates reminds me that I’ve made a winner!
Impressive Presentation
The golden color of the chicken, combined with the drizzle of honey, makes for an impressive presentation. It’s perfect for casual dinners and special occasions alike! You’ll love serving it at your next gathering.
Key Ingredients for Baked Panko Chicken
When it comes to Baked Panko Chicken, the ingredients truly shine. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect mix of flavors and textures. The combination of seasoned panko breadcrumbs, juicy chicken, and a touch of honey makes this dish a crowd favorite.
- 2 lbs chicken breast cutlets (about 6 thin chicken breast pieces): These juicy cuts are the star of the dish, providing tenderness and a great base for the crispy panko coating.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavor of the chicken, bringing everything together.
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise: This helps the panko adhere to the chicken, creating a beautiful crust.
- 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs (unseasoned): The secret to that incredible crunch, panko is lighter than regular breadcrumbs and absorbs less oil, making it the ideal choice for frying or baking.
- 1 tbsp butter (melted): Adds richness and flavor to the panko mixture, contributing to that golden-brown color.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: This adds a subtle smokiness and depth of flavor to the chicken, enhancing the overall taste.
- 1/2 tsp salt: An important seasoning that brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Provides aromatic notes that complement the chicken beautifully.
- 1/4 tsp onion powder: Adds a mild sweetness and complexity to the dish.
- 2 tbsp honey: The sweet drizzle that ties everything together, adding a delicious contrast to the savory chicken.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, these add a nice kick to the dish!
Baked Panko Chicken Instructions
Making Baked Panko Chicken is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Here’s how to create this crispy delight in just a few steps.
- Prepare the panko mixture by combining panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and onion powder in a bowl. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the seasonings.
- Pour melted butter over the seasoned breadcrumbs. Stir until the butter is fully incorporated, creating a cohesive mixture that will adhere to the chicken.
- Set the panko mixture aside while you prepare the chicken breast cutlets.
- Season each side of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste, making sure to cover all surfaces for maximum flavor.
- Lay the seasoned chicken breasts flat on a large baking sheet. Take a generous amount of mayonnaise and spread a thin coat over the top of each breast. This will help the panko adhere and create a crispy layer.
- Now, it’s time to coat the chicken. Turn each chicken breast mayo side down into the panko mixture, ensuring the top is fully coated. Press down gently to secure the crumbs onto the chicken.
- Return the coated chicken breasts to the baking sheet. Spoon any remaining panko mixture over the tops of the chicken breasts and gently pat down to secure the crumbs further.
- Preheat your oven to 425˚F (220˚C). Once heated, place the baking sheet in the oven.
- Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F (75˚C). The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts, so keep an eye on them!
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the honey drizzle. In a small bowl, mix the honey with red pepper flakes if using. This adds a sweet and spicy touch.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and drizzle the honey mixture over the top just before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Panko Chicken!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cook Until Golden: Ensure the panko breadcrumbs are golden brown for the best texture and flavor.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to avoid any food safety issues.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices, keeping the meat tender.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try different seasonings in your panko mix to create variations that suit your taste.
Tips and Variations
There are so many ways to enjoy Baked Panko Chicken! Here are some of my favorite tips and variations:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked, coated chicken for up to a month. Just bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or rice to complete the meal.
- Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the honey drizzle for an extra kick.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the panko mixture for a burst of flavor.
How to Enjoy Baked Panko Chicken
Enjoying your Baked Panko Chicken is all about the right accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:
- Serve it Hot: It’s best enjoyed right out of the oven when the chicken is hot, juicy, and crisp!
- Pair with Sides: Complement your chicken with steamed broccoli or a refreshing caesar salad for a balanced meal.
- Perfect for Lunch: Leftovers make fantastic lunch options—try it sliced in a wrap or on a salad.
- Casual Gatherings: This dish is perfect for casual get-togethers—everyone loves crispy chicken!
- Meal Prep: Plan ahead by making a double batch for quick dinners during the week!
- Seasonal Twist: Serve with a seasonal vegetable medley to highlight the flavors of the current season.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Baked Panko Chicken stands out as an exceptional dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavors. The crunchy panko coating, paired with the sweet honey drizzle, creates a truly irresistible experience. I encourage you to try making this dish for your next family dinner or casual gathering. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how much everyone will enjoy it. Happy cooking!
Baked Panko Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the panko mixture by combining the panko with the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and onion powder. Pour the butter over the seasoned crumbs and mix until combined. Set aside.
- Season each side of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Then lay them flat on a large baking sheet and spread a very thin coat of mayonnaise over the top of each chicken breast.
- Turn each chicken breast mayo side down into the crumb mixture to coat the top, then return it to the baking sheet. Spoon any remaining crumbs over the top of each chicken breast and pat to secure to the chicken.
- Bake at 425˚F for 10 to 15 minutes, until cooked through to an internal temp of 165˚F. The time may vary based on the thickness of your chicken.
- While the chicken cooks, mix the honey with the red pepper flakes. Drizzle the honey over the chicken right before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Mayonnaise: If you can’t eat mayonnaise, sour cream and greek yogurt can also be used in place of mayo, but will lend a slightly different flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: This is absolutely optional, but it is really delicious!
- Storage: Keep it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze it for up to a month.
