Description
This Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken is juicy, tangy, and packed with bold flavor. Marinated in dill pickle juice, coated in Parmesan and breadcrumbs, then baked or air-fried, it delivers crunch, tenderness, and unforgettable taste. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or unique chicken dinner recipes that go beyond the basics.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup dill pickle juice (from a jar)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing/spraying)
- Optional: fresh dill, lemon wedges, extra Parmesan
Instructions
- Marinate: Place chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag. Add dill pickle juice and refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Prep Dredging Station: In one bowl, whisk eggs and water. In another, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and pepper.
- Coat Chicken: Pat chicken dry, dip in egg wash, then press firmly into the Parmesan-breadcrumb coating.
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Lightly brush or spray with olive oil. Bake 25–30 minutes until golden and 165°F internally.
- Air Fryer Method: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray basket. Air fry 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve: Top with extra Parmesan or dill and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Dry chicken thoroughly after marinating for the coating to stick.
- Freshly grated Parmesan gives the crispiest crust.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket.
- For low-carb, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour.
- Marinating less time gives milder pickle flavor; longer gives bolder flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Chicken, Main Dish
- Method: Baked or Air Fried
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: dill pickle chicken, parmesan chicken, crispy chicken recipe, air fryer chicken, baked chicken parmesan, pickle juice chicken marinade, unique chicken dinner