Fried Chicken with Parmesan-Spiked Bread Crumbs

So why did I add parmesan cheese to the breading layer? I asked myself, "Why not?" We love all types of cheese in my house, so I figured adding cheese to one of our favorite dishes would be a good thing. And, BOY! Is it good! 

I decided to fry the chicken in this recipe, but for a healthier, baked version, simply arrange the coated chicken on a baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake at 400 degrees for 25 minutes, until cooked through and golden brown. 

Fried Chicken with Parmesan-Spiked Bread Crumbs

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 1/2 cups seasoned bread crumbs
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
Oil for frying, I used a blend of vegetable and peanut oils

In one freezer bag, combine the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a shallow dish, combine the eggs and milk, whisk until blended. In another freezer bag, combine the bread crumbs and parmesan cheese. 

Add the chicken to the flour mixture and shake to coat. 

Shake off excess flour and add the chicken to the egg mixture. 

Shake off excess egg and add the chicken to the bread crumb mixture. Work in batches to make sure the chicken is evenly coated. 

Heat the oil in a large shallow pan over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the chicken and cooked until browned and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. 

Drain on paper towels. If desired, sprinkle with a little coarse salt. 

Serves 4