Chicken parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that typically consists of a breaded chicken cutlet topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese. While breadcrumbs are the most common coating used, there are several breadcrumb alternatives you can use to change up this dish.
Using Crackers or Cookies
One of the easiest swaps is using crackers or cookies in place of traditional breadcrumbs. Crackers like Ritz or saltines can be pulsed into crumbs in a food processor. The same goes for cookies like graham crackers or gingersnaps. These options add a hint of flavor to the coating.
Nuts
Finely chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, pecans, or pistachios also coat the chicken nicely. Be sure to pulse them in a food processor into a fine crumb. Going the nut route adds a pleasant crunch and richness. Just avoid nuts like peanuts or cashews as they tend to be too soft.
Potato Flakes
Dehydrated potato flakes create an ultra-crisp coating on chicken parmesan. Simply use them in place of breadcrumbs in your usual recipe. The potato flakes brown beautifully in the oven.
Cornmeal or Corn Flakes
Corn-based products make excellent substitutes for breadcrumbs when frying or baking chicken. Try using cornmeal, corn flakes cereal, or even crushed corn tortilla chips. The corn provides a delightful crunch and pairs well with the cheese and tomato sauce.
Panko Breadcrumbs
Switching to Japanese panko breadcrumbs is an easy way to make your chicken parmesan extra crispy. Panko crumbs are lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs. Be sure to pulse them into finer crumbs if needed.
Crushed Crackers or Cereal
For a budget-friendly option, try crushing saltine crackers, Ritz crackers, corn flakes, bran flakes or other crunchy cereals in a zip top bag with a rolling pin. The crispy crumbs will adhere nicely to the chicken.
Gluten-Free Options
For gluten-free chicken parm, use gluten-free bread crumbs or try coarse cornmeal, crushed rice cereal, potato flakes or almond flour. You can also coat with beaten egg instead of breadcrumbs.
Herbed Breadcrumbs
Amp up the flavor by adding Italian seasoning, garlic powder, Parmesan and fresh parsley to plain breadcrumbs. This infuses the chicken with lots of extra flavor.
Pantry Items to Use
Here is a quick list of viable breadcrumb substitutes you likely have on hand:
| Pantry Item | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Saltine crackers | Crush into fine crumbs |
| Graham crackers | Pulse into crumbs |
| Corn flakes | Crush into flakes |
| Panko breadcrumbs | Use as is or pulse more |
| Almonds | Finely chop |
| Walnuts | Finely chop |
| Pistachios | Finely chop |
| Potato flakes | Use as is |
| Cornmeal | Use as is |
Tips for Crispy Chicken Parm
No matter what coating you use, here are some tips for getting crispy baked chicken parmesan every time:
- Pound the chicken breasts thin and evenly – 1/2 inch is ideal
- Use flour along with beaten eggs when breading
- Press the breadcrumbs into the chicken so they adhere
- Let the breaded chicken sit for 10-20 minutes before baking
- Bake at 400°F on a wire rack lined sheet pan
- Avoid overcrowding – leave space between each piece
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown
Conclusion
When it comes to chicken parmesan, don’t feel restricted to traditional breadcrumbs. There are endless crunchy coatings to try – from crackers and nuts to cereals and cornmeal. Just be sure to add plenty of flavor through seasoning. With the right technique, you can achieve tender chicken and a crispy coating using any of these breadcrumb alternatives.