Chicken Bites in Parmesan Crust
Category: Appetizers
Serves: 4
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 500g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP (grated) | 50g |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Stale bread (crumbs) | 100g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP (grated) | 20g |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Parmesan Crust:
- Begin by preparing the crispy Parmesan discs. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place 20g of grated Parmigiano Reggiano in the center. Shape it into a disk, pressing gently with the back of a spoon.
- Place the baking sheet in the top rack of the oven and set the grill to 240°C (464°F). Allow the cheese to melt and bubble for about 2 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and immediately place the hot, soft Parmesan disc onto an overturned aluminum cupcake liner (keeping the parchment paper underneath). Gently press down to shape it into a small basket.
- Refrigerate for a few minutes to let it firm up.
-
-
Prepare the Chicken Bites:
- While the Parmesan baskets are cooling, prepare the chicken bites. Trim the crust from the stale bread, then cut the inside into small cubes. Transfer the bread cubes into a bowl and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In separate bowls, prepare an egg wash by beating the eggs in one bowl and in another, place the remaining 50g of grated Parmigiano Reggiano for coating the chicken.
- Dip each chicken bite first into the egg wash, then coat it with the grated Parmesan, followed by the breadcrumbs.
-
Fry the Chicken Bites:
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat, ensuring the oil reaches 170°C (340°F) (use a thermometer to check).
- Fry the chicken bites in small batches to maintain the oil temperature, cooking them for about 3 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken bites from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
-
Assemble and Serve:
- Retrieve the Parmesan baskets from the fridge and carefully remove the parchment paper. You will notice that they have solidified into crunchy little cups.
- Place the Parmesan baskets on a serving platter or cutting board. Fill each basket with the crispy chicken bites.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the delightful contrast between the crispy, cheesy exterior and tender, juicy chicken.
Cooking Tip:
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can serve the chicken bites with a side of tangy dipping sauce like a garlic aioli or honey mustard.
These chicken bites in Parmesan crust offer a perfect balance of savory, crispy, and cheesy goodness, making them an ideal appetizer for any gathering or a delicious snack for your next meal!
