Name: Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup dill pickle juice; ½ cup all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; 2 large eggs; 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Cooking oil (for frying, such as vegetable or canola oil)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a chicken dish that perfectly balances tangy zest with irresistible crispiness, the Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken is exactly what you need. Imagine juicy chicken breasts soaking up the bright, briny flavors of dill pickle juice before being coated with a savory Parmesan breadcrumb crust that fries to a golden perfection. This dish delivers a mouthwatering crunch combined with a punch of flavor that keeps you coming back for more. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special get-together, Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken will quickly become your go-to recipe for an impressive yet easy meal.

Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe is chosen with care to build the perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. From the tang of dill pickle juice to the rich, nutty essence of Parmesan cheese, every component plays a vital role in making the Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken truly extraordinary.

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless to ensure even cooking and ease of eating.
Dill pickle juice: Adds a bright, tangy marinade that tenderizes and infuses flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Seasoned for extra flavor and perfect crispiness.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a savory, salty crunch to the breading.
Eggs: Acts as a glue to make sure the breading sticks nicely.
All-purpose flour: Provides a dry base layer for the breading to cling onto.
Garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the coating.
Onion powder: Enhances the savory profile without overpowering.
Paprika: Brings subtle smokiness and a hint of color.
Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing flavors throughout.
Cooking oil: For frying, crucial to achieving that perfect golden crisp.

How to Make Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by immersing your chicken breasts in dill pickle juice. This step is key as the acidic pickle juice not only imparts a lively tang to the meat but also helps to tenderize it, making every bite juicy and flavorful. Let the chicken sit in the marinade refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to allow that magic to happen.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Next, prep three separate bowls for your breading adventure. Season the all-purpose flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder in the first bowl for that initial layer of flavor. Whisk the eggs in the second bowl, which will act as a sticky bridge. In the third bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, which will provide that irresistible final crust.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oil

Heat enough cooking oil to cover the bottom of a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough to sizzle immediately when a breadcrumb touches the surface, signaling the perfect temperature for frying—this ensures the chicken gets crispy without soaking up too much oil.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Remove each chicken breast from the marinade and shake off excess liquid. First, dredge it in the seasoned flour to create a dry surface, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally roll it generously in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. This three-step process guarantees a thick, flavorful crust that crisps up beautifully.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Place your breaded chicken breasts carefully into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the pan which could lower the oil temperature and cause sogginess. Fry each side for 5 to 7 minutes until the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This careful cooking ensures a crunchy exterior while keeping the chicken tender inside.

Step 6: Drain and Rest

Transfer the fried chicken onto a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving; this resting time locks in the juices so the chicken stays moist and tender with every bite.

Step 7: Enjoy or Store

Your Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken is now ready to impress at the dinner table! You can serve it immediately for maximum crunch or let it cool before storing it in an airtight container for delicious leftovers.

How to Serve Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken

Garnishes

Add freshness and a pop of color by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives. A light drizzle of ranch or a dollop of tangy coleslaw can also bring a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken.

Side Dishes

Balance out the bold flavors of the Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken with some classic comfort sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even a crisp green salad complement the dish perfectly, making it a well-rounded meal everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken and pile it on toasted sandwich buns with lettuce and tomato to make mouthwatering chicken sandwiches. Alternatively, serve on a platter with an array of dips like honey mustard or spicy aioli for an irresistible appetizer spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken flavorful and moist, ready for a quick reheated meal or snack.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the fully cooked chicken breasts in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just be sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating

To reheat and keep that delightful crisp, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the coating soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pickles for the marinade?

While dill pickle juice gives the perfect tangy flavor for this recipe, you can experiment with bread and butter pickle juice for a slightly sweeter variation. Just keep in mind this will alter the overall taste.

Is it possible to bake the Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, yields a healthier version with good crunch, although it may not be quite as crispy as frying.

What’s the best way to make sure the breading sticks well?

Following the three-step breading process—flour, egg, then breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture—is key. Make sure to shake off excess marinade and press the coating firmly onto the chicken for the best adhesion.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless and skinless chicken thighs work well too and bring a bit more richness, but you may need to adjust cooking time slightly as thighs can cook faster and stay juicier.

How can I make the chicken extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular for a lighter, crunchier texture. Also, frying in oil that’s hot enough and avoiding overcrowding the pan will help maintain crispiness.

Final Thoughts

The Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken is a flavorful, crunchy delight that’s surprisingly simple to make and perfect for any occasion. Its unique tangy twist combined with savory Parmesan coating creates a memorable dish you’ll want to serve repeatedly. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite chicken recipe!

Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 29 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts marinated in tangy dill pickle juice, coated in a flavorful mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, then fried to crispy golden perfection. It’s a deliciously crunchy, juicy chicken dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts and 1 cup dill pickle juice. Ensure the chicken is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse and the chicken to tenderize.
Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three separate bowls: In the first bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and paprika.
Preheat the Oil: Heat enough cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat to cover the bottom. Test the oil temperature by dropping in a breadcrumb; it should sizzle immediately, indicating it’s ready for frying.
Coat the Chicken: Remove each chicken breast from the pickle juice marinade, shaking off excess liquid. Dredge each piece first in the seasoned flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture.
Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is reached. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender bite.
Serve or Store: Serve the chicken hot as a main dish or allow it to cool before storing in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Notes

For extra flavor, use seasoned breadcrumbs or add extra herbs like dried parsley to the breadcrumb mixture.
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent soggy coating; medium heat is ideal.
Do not overcrowd the skillet to maintain oil temperature and even browning.
This chicken pairs well with a side of mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee safe cooking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American