Description
This Irresistibly Bold Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken recipe features tender chicken cutlets marinated in tangy dill pickle juice, then breaded with a flavorful blend of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and spices. Baked or air-fried to crispy golden perfection, it’s a zesty, family-friendly dish that brightens up any dinner table with a delightful crunch and bold flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced lengthwise for cutlets)
- 1 cup dill pickle juice (from jar)
Breading
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh dill (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate: Place the sliced chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the dill pickle juice over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are submerged. Seal or cover and refrigerate for 2 to 8 hours to infuse the chicken with bold, tangy flavors.
- Preheat: About 30 minutes before cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking, or preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for air frying.
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with the all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with the beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Bread the Chicken: Remove chicken pieces from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. Coat each chicken cutlet first in the seasoned flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is fully coated for a crispy crust.
- Cook the Chicken: For oven baking, place the breaded chicken on a greased baking sheet or wire rack and bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For air frying, arrange the breaded chicken in a single layer and air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh dill if desired and serve hot alongside your favorite sides for a flavorful family dinner.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer (up to 8 hours) enhances the pickle flavor.
- Patting the chicken dry before breading helps the coating stick better and become crispier.
- Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow air circulation for crispier baked chicken.
- If using an air fryer, avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safety and juiciness.
- Fresh dill garnish is optional but adds a nice herbal note complementary to the pickle flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes + 2–8 hours marinating
- Cook Time: 18–22 minutes (oven) or 10–12 minutes (air fryer)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Dill Pickle Chicken, Parmesan Chicken, Breaded Chicken Cutlets, Air Fryer Chicken, Baked Chicken, Tangy Chicken Recipe, Family Dinner Chicken
