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Crispy dill pickle parmesan chicken with golden brown breading served on white platter with fresh herbs

Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken

Golden-brown chicken breasts marinated in pickle juice and coated with Parmesan breadcrumbs for a crispy, tangy, and savory weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 50 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts 6-8 oz each
  • 1 cup dill pickle juice from pickle jar
  • 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs Italian-style preferred
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika optional
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • cooking oil vegetable or canola, for frying

Equipment

  • Large bowl or resealable bag
  • Three shallow bowls
  • Large skillet
  • Paper towels
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Place chicken breasts in a large bowl or resealable bag and pour pickle juice over them, ensuring each piece is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours for best results.
  2. Set up three shallow bowls for breading station. In first bowl, combine flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In second bowl, whisk eggs until smooth. In third bowl, mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
  3. Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Test temperature by dropping in a breadcrumb - it should sizzle immediately without burning.
  4. Remove each chicken breast from marinade and pat lightly with paper towels. Dredge in seasoned flour, shaking off excess, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally press firmly into breadcrumb mixture on both sides.
  5. Carefully place breaded chicken in hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side until coating is deep golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

For a healthier version, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes instead of frying. Store leftovers in airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat in 375°F oven on wire rack for 10-12 minutes to maintain crispiness.