Prepare to revolutionize your weeknight dinners with this incredible Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe. Featuring a perfectly crispy, golden-brown breading and chicken that’s impossibly tender and juicy on the inside, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Forget lengthy preparations; this entire recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings, casual gatherings with friends, efficient meal prep, or simply enjoying delicious leftovers. It’s remarkably simple, straightforward, and incredibly versatile, offering an elegant touch to any meal without the fuss.
Why You’ll Adore This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- **Unbelievably Quick & Easy:** This recipe is a lifesaver, requiring only 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for whipping up a gourmet-tasting meal even on your most hectic days.
- **Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home:** Many agree this homemade version surpasses even famous restaurant renditions, like the popular Longhorn parmesan crusted chicken. You’ll be amazed by the depth of flavor and perfect texture you can achieve in your own kitchen.
- **A Healthier Take on “Fried” Chicken:** By pan-frying in a minimal amount of healthy oil like olive or avocado oil, this recipe offers a delicious alternative that’s significantly lighter than traditional deep-fried chicken, without sacrificing any of the crispness or flavor.
- **Incredibly Versatile for Any Meal:** Serve this delightful chicken for a hearty lunch, an elegant dinner, or slice it thinly to elevate a fresh salad. Its adaptability makes it a staple for any culinary occasion.
- **Pairs Beautifully with Many Sides:** Enjoy it as the star of the plate, or complement it with classic comfort sides. For a truly cozy and satisfying meal, serve it alongside **Green Beans and Potatoes**.
- **A Family Favorite:** This Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a guaranteed hit with both children and adults, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
- **Endless Serving Possibilities:** Beyond traditional sides, it’s fantastic with spaghetti, lighter spaghetti squash, fresh green salads, or simply enjoyed on its own.
- **Effortlessly Gluten-Free:** Adapting this recipe for a gluten-free diet is remarkably simple, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish.
- **Explore More Italian Delights:** If you love Italian-inspired dishes, be sure to check out this **Cheesy Lasagna** for another unforgettable meal!
Essential Ingredients & Smart Substitutions for Crispy Chicken
Crafting the perfect crispy Parmesan crusted chicken starts with high-quality ingredients. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need and some helpful substitution tips to ensure your dish is nothing short of spectacular. For the complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions, refer to the recipe card further down.
For the Chicken
**Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts:** These are the ideal choice for this recipe due to their lean nature and quick cooking time. Aim for fresh chicken breasts for the best results. If you only have frozen chicken, ensure it’s completely thawed before you begin preparation to guarantee even cooking and optimal texture. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is crucial for consistent results.
**Salt and Pepper:** Simple yet essential. Season the chicken generously with freshly ground salt and black pepper to enhance its natural flavor and penetrate the meat before breading.
**Flour (Gluten-Free or All-Purpose):** This forms the first layer of your breading station, helping the egg wash adhere evenly. Both gluten-free flour blends and traditional all-purpose flour work beautifully. Choose whichever suits your dietary needs or preferences.
**Eggs:** The unsung hero of the breading process, eggs act as the binding agent, ensuring your breadcrumbs stick firmly to the chicken. There are no direct substitutes for eggs in this context, so make sure you have fresh, large eggs on hand.
**Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular, Gluten-Free Option):** For that signature crispy exterior, breadcrumbs are key. Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for their extra light and airy texture, which contributes to a superior crunch. Regular breadcrumbs also work well. If you’re going gluten-free, choose gluten-free Panko or regular gluten-free breadcrumbs.
**Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese:** This ingredient is non-negotiable for authentic flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese offers a bolder, more pungent taste and melts beautifully, creating an incredibly flavorful crust. Pre-grated Parmesan can be used in a pinch, but fresh will always provide a superior experience.
**Dried Italian Seasoning:** This convenient blend brings all the classic Mediterranean flavors to your chicken. It typically includes a harmonious mix of oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can easily create your own blend using individual dried herbs.
**Olive Oil or Avocado Oil (for Frying):** For pan-frying, a healthy oil with a high smoke point is essential. Olive oil adds a lovely Mediterranean note, while avocado oil is another excellent choice known for its neutral flavor and stability at higher temperatures.
For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce (Optional, but Highly Recommended)
**Unsalted Butter:** Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of your sauce. It forms the rich base for this luscious topping.
**Garlic Cloves (Minced):** Freshly minced garlic provides an aromatic and robust flavor that perfectly complements the Parmesan chicken. Don’t skimp on the garlic for maximum impact.
**Lemon (Juice and Zest):** One fresh lemon will provide both the vibrant zest and tangy juice needed for the sauce. The zest offers concentrated lemon flavor, while the juice adds a bright, acidic counterpoint to the rich butter and garlic, cutting through the richness of the chicken.
**Salt and Pepper:** A touch of salt and pepper helps to balance and enhance the flavors of the lemon garlic butter sauce.
**Fresh Parsley (for Garnish):** A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note, completing the dish beautifully.
The Exquisite Taste & Perfect Texture
This Parmesan crusted chicken delivers a taste sensation reminiscent of your favorite elevated Italian cuisine. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of savory, cheesy, and herbaceous flavors that truly sing. The magic lies in the contrast: the exterior boasts an incredibly crispy, golden-brown breading that shatters delightfully with every bite, revealing the perfectly cooked chicken within. The meat is consistently tender, moist, and never overcooked, ensuring a succulent experience. When drizzled with the optional lemon garlic butter sauce, the dish gains an added layer of bright, zesty, and rich complexity that elevates it from great to truly unforgettable.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Follow these detailed steps to create a flawless Parmesan crusted chicken that will impress everyone at your table.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Begin by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. Cover them with a sheet of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or a rolling pin, pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of approximately ½ inch. This crucial step not only tenderizes the chicken but also ensures that it cooks uniformly, preventing dry spots and promoting overall juiciness.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Generously season both sides of the pounded chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; this layer of flavor is essential and will infuse into the chicken as it cooks.
Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station
Prepare your breading station using three separate shallow dishes or pie plates. In the first dish, place your flour (either gluten-free or all-purpose). In the second dish, whisk the large eggs until they are smooth and well-combined. In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs (Panko or regular, gluten-free if preferred), freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian seasoning. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavor in your crust.
Step 4: Dredge in Flour
Take one seasoned chicken breast and dredge it completely in the flour, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Gently shake off any excess flour; a thin, even coat is all you need for the next step.
Step 5: Dip in Egg
Next, carefully dip the flour-coated chicken breast into the whisked eggs. Allow any excess egg to drip off back into the dish. This egg wash is vital for creating a sticky surface for the breadcrumbs to adhere to.
Step 6: Coat with Parmesan Breading
Finally, transfer the egg-dipped chicken breast to the third dish containing the breadcrumb, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning mixture. Coat the chicken thoroughly on both sides, gently pressing the breadcrumbs onto the surface to ensure they adhere firmly and create a thick, even crust. Repeat the breading process for all remaining chicken breasts.
Step 7: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot enough that a drop of water sizzles instantly when added, but not smoking. This ensures a beautifully golden and crispy crust.
Step 8: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning and even cooking. Cook for approximately 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is a beautiful golden brown and the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. Adjust cooking time slightly based on the actual thickness of your chicken pieces.
Step 9: Rest the Chicken
Once cooked, transfer the crispy chicken breasts to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a more tender and moist result.
Step 10: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
While the chicken rests, prepare the optional (but highly recommended) lemon garlic butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until fully liquefied.
Step 11: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and softened but has not yet turned brown. Browning the garlic can make it bitter.
Step 12: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to achieve a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and rich flavors.
Step 13: Serve with Sauce
Generously pour the warm lemon garlic butter sauce over the cooked, rested Parmesan crusted chicken breasts. The sauce adds a vibrant layer of flavor that truly elevates the dish.
Step 14: Garnish and Enjoy
Finally, garnish your magnificent Parmesan crusted chicken with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness. Serve immediately and savor every delicious bite!
Expert Tips for Achieving Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
To ensure your Parmesan crusted chicken turns out flawlessly crispy and juicy every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
**Pound Chicken Evenly:** Utilizing a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to a uniform ½-inch thickness is critical. This ensures that every part of the chicken cooks at the same rate, resulting in consistently tender and moist meat without any dry spots.
**Use Shallow Bowls for Breading:** Setting up your breading station with shallow, wide dishes makes the dredging process much easier and cleaner, allowing for complete and even coating of the chicken.
**Opt for Freshly Grated Parmesan:** Whenever possible, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It not only offers a significantly bolder and more authentic flavor compared to pre-grated varieties but also melts more beautifully into the crust, creating a richer, cheesier breading.
**Monitor Oil Temperature:** Pay close attention to the oil in your skillet. It should be hot enough to sizzle the breading immediately upon contact, but not smoking. Overly hot oil can burn the crust before the chicken cooks through, while oil that isn’t hot enough can lead to a greasy, soggy breading. Maintain medium-high heat for the best results.
**Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature and causes the chicken to steam rather than fry, resulting in a less crispy crust. Give each piece enough space to achieve that perfect golden-brown crispness.
**Use a Meat Thermometer:** The most accurate way to ensure your chicken is safely cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
**Rest the Chicken:** After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes on a cutting board or wire rack. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness and juiciness when you slice into it.
An Alternative: Oven-Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
If you prefer a hands-off approach or are looking for an even lighter option, baking this Parmesan crusted chicken is a fantastic alternative. Here’s how to achieve a delicious, oven-baked version:
**Preparation:** First, prepare the chicken breasts exactly as outlined in Steps 1 through 6 of the pan-frying instructions. Pound them to an even ½-inch thickness, season, and then go through the flour, egg, and Parmesan breadcrumb coating process.
**Arrange on Baking Pan:** Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer on the prepared baking pan, ensuring there’s a little space between each piece for even cooking.
**Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
**Bake to Perfection:** Bake the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when pierced with a knife. The crust should be golden brown and crispy. For an extra crispy crust, you can lightly spray the chicken with olive oil spray before baking.
**Serve:** Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving with the optional lemon garlic butter sauce and fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Exciting Flavor Variations & Creative Add-Ins
This Parmesan crusted chicken recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to experiment with various flavors and ingredients. Here are some ideas to customize your dish:
**Herbaceous Twists:** Infuse more aromatic notes by mixing finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme directly into your breadcrumb mixture. These herbs pair exceptionally well with chicken and Parmesan, adding a fragrant depth.
**A Hint of Spice:** For those who enjoy a little kick, add a touch of paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs. Smoked paprika can also introduce a delightful smoky undertone.
**Savory Enhancements:** Boost the savory profile by incorporating a quarter teaspoon of onion powder or garlic powder into the dry seasonings alongside the Italian seasoning. This adds another layer of classic flavor.
**Cheesy Layers:** For an extra cheesy experience, consider topping the cooked Parmesan crusted chicken with a slice of mozzarella or provolone cheese during the last few minutes of baking (if using the baked method) or immediately after pan-frying, allowing it to melt beautifully.
**Chicken Thighs instead of Breasts:** While chicken breasts are specified, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for a richer, darker meat option. Just be sure to pound them thinly to ensure even cooking and adjust cooking times accordingly, as thighs may require slightly longer to cook through.
**Spicy Red Pepper Flakes:** For a subtle heat, sprinkle a few red pepper flakes into the breading mixture or directly into the lemon garlic butter sauce.
Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips
This delightful Parmesan crusted chicken is best enjoyed hot and fresh, straight from the pan or oven!
Serving Suggestions:
**Classic Italian Pairing:** This recipe is a natural fit for Italian-inspired meals. Serve it alongside perfectly cooked whole wheat pasta tossed in a vibrant marinara sauce, and don’t forget a side of crispy **garlic bread** for dipping.
**Light & Fresh:** For a lighter meal, pair the chicken with steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. A crisp Caesar salad or a simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette also makes for an excellent complement.
**Healthy Alternatives:** Instead of traditional pasta, serve this chicken over a bed of fluffy quinoa, low-carb spaghetti squash, or a vibrant pasta primavera loaded with fresh vegetables.
Storage & Reheating:
**Refrigeration:** Store any leftover Parmesan crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from drying out.
**Reheating for Crispness:** To best preserve the crispy texture, reheat leftover chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the chicken on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust regains its crispness. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make the breading soggy.
**Freezing:** If you wish to store this chicken for a longer period, it freezes exceptionally well. Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely. For best results, flash freeze individual pieces on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Absolutely! While Parmesan cheese provides a distinct, rich, and savory flavor that is central to this dish, you can certainly experiment with other hard, grated cheeses. Asiago or Pecorino Romano would make excellent substitutes, offering slightly different but equally delicious flavor profiles. For a milder taste, you could even try a blend that includes some shredded mozzarella, though this may change the crispness slightly.
Yes, absolutely! Baking is a fantastic option for a lighter version or if you prefer a hands-off cooking method. Simply prepare the chicken as instructed, then place the breaded pieces on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden and crisp. You can lightly spray with cooking oil before baking for extra crispness.
Certainly! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs make a wonderful substitute for chicken breasts, offering a richer flavor and often a more tender texture. Just be sure to pound the chicken thighs to an even, thin thickness (about ½ inch) just like the breasts to ensure uniform cooking. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, typically around 5-7 minutes per side for pan-frying, or similar baking times as breasts, but always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Parmesan crusted chicken refers to chicken (typically chicken breast or thigh) that has been coated in a mixture primarily consisting of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, along with seasonings. This breaded chicken is then cooked until the exterior is golden, crispy, and the inside is tender and juicy. In this specific recipe, we achieve that delicious result through pan-frying, which yields an exceptionally crispy crust.
The signature Parmesan crust is generally created by dredging chicken through a three-step breading process. It usually involves flour as the first layer, followed by a liquid binder like beaten eggs, and finally a mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian seasoning for flavor and crispness. Some variations may include additional herbs or spices.
Traditional Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana) is often pan-fried to achieve a crispy exterior, then typically baked with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese to finish cooking and melt the cheese. For just “Parmesan crusted chicken” without the full “Parmesan” dish, it can be either pan-fried for maximum crispness or baked for a lighter, often simpler preparation. This recipe focuses on pan-frying to highlight the crispy crust, with a baking option provided.
This recipe is incredibly easy to make gluten-free! To do so, simply ensure you use a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the first dredging step and gluten-free breadcrumbs (such as gluten-free Panko) for the final coating. All other ingredients, like chicken, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings, are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check labels to be certain.
You can prepare parts of this recipe in advance. The chicken can be pounded and seasoned the day before. You can also set up the breading station and coat the chicken several hours before cooking. Store the breaded chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet, loosely covered with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator. This allows the breading to set, which can help achieve an even crispier crust when cooked.
Several tips help prevent soggy breading:
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature.
- After frying, place the cooked chicken on a wire rack (not directly on a plate) to allow air circulation and drain excess oil, which helps maintain crispness.
- Serve immediately after cooking.
- When reheating, use an oven or air fryer instead of a microwave.
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. Here’s a list of equipment that will help you prepare this Parmesan crusted chicken with ease:
Our Place Always Pan: This versatile pan is excellent for stovetop cooking, offering even heat distribution for perfectly fried chicken.
Meat Mallet: Essential for pounding your chicken breasts to a uniform thickness, ensuring even cooking and tenderness.
**Shallow Dishes/Plates:** For setting up your efficient breading station.
**Whisk:** To thoroughly beat the eggs for your breading.
**Meat Thermometer:** Crucial for accurately checking the internal temperature of the chicken, ensuring it’s cooked to a safe 165°F (74°C).
**Small Saucepan:** For preparing the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce.
Check out all of my kitchen favorites for more useful cooking tools!
You May Also Enjoy These Delicious Recipes
If you loved this Parmesan Crusted Chicken, be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes:
- Southern Mac and Cheese
- Cheese Quesadilla
- Creamy Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce
- Flavorful BBQ Chicken Thighs
- Indulgent Lobster Mac and Cheese
If you create this delicious Parmesan crusted chicken recipe, I would truly appreciate your feedback and a review! You can connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. For exclusive behind-the-scenes content and community discussions, join my private Facebook Group. I’d love for you to follow along on my culinary journey! For even more meal ideas, explore these incredible Dinner Recipes.
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Parmesan Crusted Chicken
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Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- sea salt, to taste
- black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup flour, gluten free or regular
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups breadcrumbs, gluten free or regular
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- olive oil, for frying
For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce (Optional):
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- sea salt, to taste
- black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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First, place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover them with plastic wrap. Pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch) using a meat mallet or a rolling pin.
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Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
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In three separate shallow dishes, set up a breading station. Place the flour in one dish, whisk the eggs in another dish, and combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian seasoning in the third dish.
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Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
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Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
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Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they adhere.
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In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
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Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot oil. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken.
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Place the cooked chicken on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
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Then, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned.
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Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Pour the lemon garlic butter sauce over the cooked parmesan crusted chicken.
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Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
- I am gluten free, so I use gluten free flour and gluten free Panko breadcrumbs. Feel free to use regular if you are not gluten free.
- Pound the chicken out to an even thickness.
- Use a meat thermometer to accurately measure the internal temperature of the chicken.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minute before slicing into.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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