Description
This bold and tangy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken recipe features juicy chicken cutlets marinated in dill pickle juice and coated with a flavorful Parmesan-panko crust. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish is an easy family-friendly dinner that combines classic Southern flavors with a zesty kick.
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 for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate: Place the sliced chicken breasts in a resealable bag or dish and cover completely with dill pickle juice. Refrigerate and let the chicken marinate for 2 to 8 hours to infuse flavor and tenderize the meat.
- Preheat: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or an air fryer to 390°F (200°C), depending on your preferred cooking method.
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up three separate bowls: one with flour seasoned lightly with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Bread the Chicken: Remove chicken from the pickle juice and pat dry with paper towels. First, coat each piece in the seasoned flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture until well coated on all sides.
- Cook (Oven Method): Place breaded chicken cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a wire rack. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Cook (Air Fryer Method): Arrange coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped dill over the cooked chicken cutlets for a fresh, herbaceous finish. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Notes
- Marinating time can be adjusted between 2 to 8 hours depending on your schedule; longer marination enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Patting the chicken dry before breading helps the coating stick better and results in a crispier crust.
- If you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill or parsley can be used as a garnish alternative.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking and crispiness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F internal temperature.
- This recipe can be doubled or halved depending on serving needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes plus 2 to 8 hours marinating
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes (oven) or 10-12 minutes (air fryer)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Dill Pickle Chicken, Parmesan Chicken, Crispy Chicken Cutlets, Air Fryer Chicken, Marinated Chicken, Family Dinner Recipe, Panko Chicken
