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Panko Crusted Chicken: A Delightful Japanese-Inspired Treat

Panko crusted chicken is a culinary delight that combines crispiness, juiciness, and a dash of umami, making it a perfect dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Drawing inspiration from Japanese cuisine, this dish utilises panko breadcrumbs, which are lighter and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs, providing a wonderful crunch that elevates the standard breaded chicken to new heights.

What is Panko?

Panko is a type of breadcrumb originating from Japan, made from white bread without crusts. The bread is processed into large, airy flakes, resulting in a texture that is significantly different from the dense and finely ground breadcrumbs commonly found in British cuisine. This unique quality gives dishes coated in panko a light and crunchy exterior, contributing to a delightful mouthfeel.

The Benefits of Panko Crusted Chicken

There are several reasons to love panko crusted chicken. Firstly, the method of preparing the chicken ensures that it remains juicy and tender on the inside while achieving a perfectly golden, crispy finish on the outside. The use of panko also makes the dish inherently light, providing an almost ethereal crunch that contrasts beautifully with the succulent meat.

Additionally, panko is versatile and can be seasoned in a variety of ways to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a classic garlic and herb combination, a spicy kick with chilli flakes, or a hint of lemon zest, panko can easily adapt to your desired flavour profile.

How to Prepare Panko Crusted Chicken

Preparing panko crusted chicken is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. Below is a simple step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect crispy chicken:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: garlic powder, paprika, Italian herbs, or Parmesan cheese for added flavour
• Olive oil or melted butter for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) or gas mark 6. Prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes—one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with any additional seasonings you choose.

3. Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken breast and dredge it first in the seasoned flour, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off excess flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in panko breadcrumbs, pressing down lightly to adhere the crumbs well.

4. Arrange on Baking Tray: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking tray. For an extra crunchy finish, drizzle a little olive oil or melted butter over the top of the chicken.

5. Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the panko is golden brown and crispy. To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, the internal temperature should reach 75°C.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it with a side of fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or your favourite dipping sauce, like sweet chilli or a tangy mayonnaise.

Conclusion

Panko crusted chicken is a wonderful dish that adds a contemporary twist to a classic favourite. Its irresistible crunch and juicy interior make it a crowd-pleaser at any meal. Whether served at a family dinner or as part of a sophisticated gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Next time you find yourself in the kitchen, consider giving panko a go—you won’t be disappointed with the results!