Chicken Breast with Herb Crust

Name: Chicken Breast with Herb Crust
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 eggs, beaten

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Deliciously seasoned chicken breast with a crispy herb crust, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2025-12-25T17:31:06.873Z

This chicken breast with herb crust is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a flavorful herb topping. It's sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant flavors.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy and flavorful herb crust adds a delightful texture
Juicy chicken breast cooked to perfection
Quick and easy to prepare for any night of the week

      

The Perfect Weeknight Dinner

When it comes to weeknight dinners, finding a recipe that is quick, easy, and satisfying can be a challenge. Chicken Breast with Herb Crust ticks all the boxes. This dish not only delivers on flavor but also requires minimal prep time, allowing you to spend more quality time with your family. The combination of fresh herbs and crispy breadcrumbs elevates a simple chicken breast to something truly special, making it an ideal choice for any day of the week.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it with a variety of sides, from a crisp green salad to roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. The herb crust adds a burst of flavor that complements almost any accompaniment, ensuring that your dinner plate is as colorful as it is delicious.

Health Benefits of Chicken

Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Packed with essential nutrients like B vitamins and minerals, chicken can help support muscle growth and repair, as well as overall health. This dish allows you to enjoy a guilt-free meal without sacrificing taste, making it perfect for health-conscious individuals.

Moreover, by using fresh herbs in the crust, you not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional value. Herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary are rich in antioxidants and offer various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. This means you can enjoy your meal knowing it's good for you, too!

Tips for Perfecting Your Herb Crust

To achieve the perfect herb crust, it's essential to ensure that your breadcrumb mixture is well combined. Mixing the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs elevates the flavor profile significantly. Don't hesitate to experiment with different herbs based on your preference or what you have on hand—basil or oregano can also work beautifully in this recipe.

When coating the chicken breasts, make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken. This helps the crust adhere during baking, resulting in a crispy exterior. For an extra crunch, consider broiling the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking. This will give your herb crust a delightful golden finish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs, beaten

Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Mix the Coating

In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Prepare the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then coat them with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Breast with Herb Crust pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a light quinoa salad. The freshness of the veggies complements the rich flavors of the chicken, making for a well-rounded meal. A squeeze of lemon over the chicken just before serving can also enhance the dish's flavor, adding a zesty brightness.

If you're looking to impress guests, consider serving this chicken with a creamy garlic sauce on the side. This will add a luxurious touch to your dish and can be prepared quickly while the chicken is baking.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers from this recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating in the oven is the best option to maintain that crispy texture. Simply place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

If you wish to freeze the cooked chicken, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for your next meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe? Yes, but it's best to thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain the juiciness of the chicken. If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave to defrost, but be careful not to start cooking the chicken in the process.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs? If you're looking for a gluten-free option, crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs work well. You can also use ground nuts or oats for a unique twist on the crust, adding more flavor and texture to your dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes.

→ Can I make the herb crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the herb mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.