Name: Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1 cup dill pickle juice; ½ cup all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 large eggs; 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Cooking oil (for frying, enough to cover bottom of skillet)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that delivers crunch, zest, and cheesy indulgence all in one bite, which is exactly why I adore this Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken. It perfectly combines the tangy punch of dill pickle juice with a golden, Parmesan-infused crust that wraps juicy, tender chicken breasts. If you love bold flavors and crave that perfect crispy texture, this recipe will absolutely become your new go-to comfort meal. Let’s dive into making this show-stopping Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken that friends and family won’t stop raving about!

Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might sound simple, but each plays a crucial role in creating that legendary Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken. From the zing of dill pickle juice to the nutty depth of Parmesan, every element contributes to the vibrant taste, irresistible crunch, and mouthwatering aroma of the dish.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect canvas for soaking up flavors and resulting in tender meat.
1 cup dill pickle juice: Adds a bright, tangy note that marinates the chicken beautifully.
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs: For that essential crispy coating loaded with flavor and texture.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a savory, cheesy richness that elevates the breading.
2 large eggs: Help the coating adhere perfectly to each chicken breast.
½ cup all-purpose flour: The first step in the breading process, providing a dry base for the eggs to cling to.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth and depth to the seasoning.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mild sweetness and savory character.
½ teaspoon paprika: For a hint of smokiness and appealing color.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
Cooking oil (for frying): Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point to achieve that golden crisp.

How to Make Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by immersing your chicken breasts in the dill pickle juice. This step is magic—it tenderizes the meat while imparting a zesty punch that makes every bite exciting. Letting it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes ensures those flavors sink all the way through.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

Set yourself up for success with a classic three-bowl station. Season your flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, whisk the eggs in the second bowl, and combine the breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese in the third. This method guarantees an even, luscious coating that crisps to perfection.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Warm a generous layer of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The right temperature is key—test by dropping in a breadcrumb; it should sizzle immediately. This ensures your chicken will fry up golden and crunchy without soaking up excess oil.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Retrieve each marinated chicken breast and give it a gentle shake to remove extra juice. First, dredge it in the seasoned flour, followed by a dip into the egg wash, and finally a thorough coating with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. This triple-layer creates that signature crispy, cheesy shell.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place your coated chicken breasts into the sizzling oil. Let them fry undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes per side until a beautiful golden crust forms and the center reaches a safe 165°F (75°C). Avoid crowding the pan to maintain even heat and crispness.

Step 6: Drain and Rest

Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up extra oil. Then, allow the chicken to rest for 5 to 10 minutes—this step locks in the juices, keeping every bite tender and flavorful rather than dry.

Step 7: Ready to Serve or Store

Enjoy your Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken hot for maximum crunch, or let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container for easy meals later in the week.

How to Serve Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives instantly brightens the plate and adds a fresh herbal note. For those who adore a creamy kick, a drizzle of ranch dressing or a tangy mustard sauce pairs wonderfully with the tangy, crispy chicken.

Side Dishes

Classic mashed potatoes, buttery corn on the cob, or a crisp green salad are all fantastic companions. For a Southern-inspired feast, pair the chicken with coleslaw and baked beans to balance flavors and textures delightfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken into sandwiches with soft brioche buns and pickles for crunch. Or slice it thin for a protein-packed salad topper. You can even make chicken sliders for parties—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop your leftover Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It keeps well and retains much of its crispiness if reheated properly.

Freezing

If you want to keep this delectable chicken around longer, freeze it in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. It stays delicious for up to 2 months—ready whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating

Reheat leftover chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to revive that crisp crust without drying out the tender meat. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crunch!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs lend a richer flavor and stay juicy, though you may need to adjust the frying time slightly to ensure they cook through without burning the crust.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken in pickle juice?

While optional, marinating in dill pickle juice is what gives this recipe its signature tang and helps tenderize the chicken for a juicier bite.

What type of oil is best for frying?

A neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works best. These oils allow the chicken to crisp nicely without imparting extra flavors.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes! For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) on a wire rack over a baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through for even crispiness.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Make sure to thoroughly pat the chicken dry after marinating, use the three-step breading process (flour, egg, then breadcrumb-Parmesan), and press the coating gently onto the chicken before frying.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken that combines familiar favorites in a wonderfully fresh way. It’s crunchy, tangy, cheesy, and downright irresistible on every level. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see just how easy it is to create a dish that feels both nostalgic and exciting at the same time. So grab your ingredients, and let this chicken steal the show at your next meal!

Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 6 reviews

Author: Andria
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken features juicy, tender chicken breasts marinated in tangy dill pickle juice, then coated in a flavorful blend of Parmesan and seasoned breadcrumbs, and fried to golden perfection. This recipe combines a unique pickle-infused marinade with a crunchy, cheesy crust, delivering a delicious, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts and dill pickle juice, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to infuse tangy flavor and tenderize the meat.
Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three bowls: in the first, mix flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika; in the second, whisk the eggs; in the third, combine seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Preheat the Oil: Heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat so it evenly covers the bottom. Test by dropping a breadcrumb to check for a sizzle indicating readiness.
Coat the Chicken: Remove each chicken breast from the marinade, shaking off excess juice. Dredge in the seasoned flour mixture first, then dip into the whisked eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, ensuring an even coat.
Fry the Chicken: Carefully place breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry each side for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.
Drain Excess Oil: Transfer cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any leftover oil and keep the crust crisp.
Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and maintain tenderness.
Serve or Store: Serve immediately for best flavor and texture, or allow to cool and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Notes

Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes adds tanginess and helps tenderize the meat.
Use seasoned breadcrumbs or Italian-style breadcrumbs for enhanced flavor.
Maintain medium heat during frying to avoid burning the crust before the chicken cooks through.
Using a meat thermometer ensures perfectly cooked chicken without drying it out.
Resting the chicken after frying improves juiciness and texture.
This recipe pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American