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Crispy dill pickle Parmesan chicken on a plate with a golden Parmesan breadcrumb crust and a lemon wedge on the side

Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken

Juicy chicken brined in dill pickle juice, coated in a crunchy Parmesan breadcrumb crust, and pan-fried until golden and crispy outside with a tender, flavorful interior.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup dill pickle juice for marinating
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs whisked
  • 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs panko recommended for extra crunch
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 0.5 cup cooking oil vegetable, canola, or peanut

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Three shallow dishes for coating station
  • Wire rack with baking sheet
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken breasts in a bowl or zip-lock bag and pour the dill pickle juice over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes, up to 2 hours.
  2. Set up three shallow dishes: (1) combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; (2) add the whisked eggs; (3) mix the seasoned breadcrumbs and freshly grated Parmesan together until evenly blended.
  3. Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat each piece completely dry with paper towels.
  4. Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour and shake off any excess. Dip in the egg and let the extra drip off. Press firmly into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture on all sides.
  5. Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the coated chicken and fry for 5 to 7 minutes per side until deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
  6. Transfer to a wire rack over a baking sheet. Let rest for 3 to 5 minutes before slicing. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.

Notes

For extra crispy results use panko breadcrumbs. Air fryer option: cook at 400F for 18 to 20 minutes flipping halfway. Bake option: 400F for 20 to 25 minutes on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze cooked pieces for up to 3 months. Reheat in oven at 350F for 10 to 15 minutes to restore crispiness. Gluten-free: swap flour and breadcrumbs for certified gluten-free alternatives.