Save If you love the tangy zip of pickles and the satisfying crunch of fried chicken, this Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken is the ultimate comfort food. This recipe takes juicy chicken breasts and transforms them using a simple yet flavorful dill pickle marinade, followed by a savory Parmesan-breadcrumb crust that fries up to golden perfection. It's an irresistible main dish bursting with flavor and texture—perfect for a weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Save The secret to this dish is the marinating process, which ensures every bite is infused with the unmistakable essence of dill. Combined with the golden-brown crust, it delivers a gourmet experience right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup dill pickle juice (from a jar of pickles)
- Breading Station
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Frying
- Cooking oil, for frying (such as canola or vegetable oil)
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate
- Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour pickle juice over chicken, ensuring all pieces are submerged. Marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Step 2: Setup
- Set up three shallow dishes: Dish 1 for flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; Dish 2 for whisked eggs; Dish 3 for breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Step 3: Prep Chicken
- Remove chicken from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
- Step 4: Breading
- Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then press into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture to coat evenly.
- Step 5: Heat Oil
- Heat 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Step 6: Fry
- Fry chicken breasts 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Step 7: Drain and Rest
- Transfer chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil. Let rest for a few minutes before serving hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the most consistent results, use an instant-read thermometer to check that the chicken has reached 165°F. Using a wire rack for draining instead of paper towels helps maintain maximum crispiness on all sides of the cutlet.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter version, bake at 425°F (220°C) on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, or air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway. You can also add a pinch of cayenne to the flour for extra heat, or substitute chicken thighs for a juicier dark meat option.
Serviervorschläge
Serve your crispy chicken with extra dill pickles, a side of creamy coleslaw, or a simple green salad to balance the savory flavors.
Save Whether you're looking for a new family favorite or a fun twist on a classic, this Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken delivers satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy the perfect crunch!
Recipe Questions
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
Marinate chicken breasts between 30 minutes to 2 hours to ensure the flavors of the dill pickle juice penetrate well.
- → Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes, baking at 425°F for 20–25 minutes on a wire rack offers a lighter alternative with a crispy crust.
- → What gives the crust its crunch?
The combination of seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese creates a crispy, flavorful coating when fried.
- → Can other chicken cuts be used?
Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts, though cooking times may vary slightly.
- → What oil is best for frying?
Use cooking oils with high smoke points, like canola or vegetable oil, to achieve an even golden crust.
- → How should the cooked chicken rest?
Place fried chicken on a wire rack to drain excess oil and let rest a few minutes before serving for optimal texture.