If you're a fan of crispy, crunchy textures, then you've probably heard of Panko breadcrumbs. Made from crustless white bread that's been processed into flakes, Panko breadcrumbs have a light and airy texture that make them the perfect coating for fried and baked foods. With just 90 calories in a 1/2 cup (27 g) serving, Panko breadcrumbs are a low-calorie way to add crunch to all kinds of dishes.

Not only do Panko breadcrumbs add texture and flavor to your dishes without adding too many calories, they're also a good source of carbs, providing around 17 grams per serving. Panko breadcrumbs also contain small amounts of fat, fiber, protein, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Panko breadcrumbs, from their nutritional benefits to their many culinary uses.

What are Panko Breadcrumbs?

Panko breadcrumbs are a type of breadcrumb that originates from Japan. Unlike traditional breadcrumbs, which are typically made from stale bread that's been ground into fine crumbs, Panko breadcrumbs are made from bread that has been processed into flakes rather than crumbs. The bread used to make Panko breadcrumbs is typically white and crustless, giving them a lighter and airier texture than regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are also coarser and larger than traditional breadcrumbs, which adds more crunch to the dishes they're used in. Panko breadcrumbs have become increasingly popular in Western cuisine, where they're used as a coating for fried and baked foods like chicken, fish, and vegetables. They're also used as a topping for casseroles, gratins, and other baked dishes.

Panko vs Regular Breadcrumbs: Which is Healthier?

When it comes to health, Panko breadcrumbs and regular breadcrumbs are fairly similar. Both types of breadcrumbs are low in calories and a good source of carbs, but they both also contain small amounts of fat and minimal fiber and protein. However, Panko breadcrumbs do have a slight edge over regular breadcrumbs when it comes to texture and crunch. Their larger and coarser flakes create a more pronounced crunch and texture, making them a better choice for crispy coatings on fried and baked foods.

How Many Carbs are in Panko Breadcrumbs?

One serving of Panko breadcrumbs, which is 1/2 cup (27 g), contains around 17 grams of carbohydrates. Most of these carbs come from the bread used to make the Panko breadcrumbs. While this may seem like a lot of carbs for a small serving size, keep in mind that Panko breadcrumbs are typically used as a coating or topping for fried or baked foods, with just a small amount sprinkled on top of each serving. As a result, the actual amount of carbs you consume from Panko breadcrumbs is likely to be relatively low depending on how much you use.

Is Panko Gluten-Free?

Unfortunately, Panko breadcrumbs are typically not gluten-free, as most commercial brands use wheat bread to make their Panko breadcrumbs. If you're on a gluten-free diet, you'll need to look for a brand of Panko breadcrumbs that's specifically labeled as gluten-free or make your own gluten-free breadcrumbs at home.

What are the Benefits of Panko Breadcrumbs?

Beyond their light and crispy texture, Panko breadcrumbs offer several benefits for home cooks and professional chefs alike. Some of the main benefits of Panko breadcrumbs include:

• They absorb less oil than traditional breadcrumbs, resulting in a lighter and less greasy texture on fried and baked foods.
• They create a crispier and more pronounced crunch than traditional breadcrumbs, making them a popular choice for deep-frying and pan-frying recipes.
• They're versatile and can be used in a wide range of recipes and dishes, from fried chicken and fish to casseroles and baked goods.
• They're widely available in most grocery stores, making them an easy and convenient ingredient to keep on hand.

How to Make Panko-Crusted Chicken?

Panko breadcrumbs are an excellent coating for fried and baked chicken dishes, as they create a light and crispy texture with minimal effort. Here's a simple recipe for making Panko-crusted chicken:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
• In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of Panko breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of dried parsley, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix well.
• In another shallow dish, beat 2 eggs until well-combined.
• Dip 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the egg mixture, then coat them in the Panko mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to adhere.
• Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy.

What are the Different Uses of Panko Breadcrumbs?

In addition to being a popular coating for fried and baked foods, there are many different ways to use Panko breadcrumbs in your cooking. Some of the most popular uses for Panko breadcrumbs include:

• As a breading for meats, fish, and vegetables
• As a topping for casseroles, gratins, and baked dishes
• As a binder for meatballs and meatloaf
• As a crunchy salad topping or garnish
• As a filler for crab cakes, veggie burgers, and other patties
• As a base for homemade stuffing or dressing

Panko vs Cornmeal: Which One is Better for Breading?

While Panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal are both popular options for breading and coating fried and baked foods, they have some key differences that make them better suited to different types of dishes. Here's a breakdown of the main differences between Panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal:

• Texture: Panko breadcrumbs are larger, coarser, and airier than cornmeal, creating a more pronounced crunch and texture on fried and baked foods.
• Taste: Panko breadcrumbs have a neutral flavor that doesn't overpower the flavors of the food they're coating, while cornmeal has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that can complement certain dishes.
• Gluten-Free: While Panko breadcrumbs are typically made with wheat bread and are not gluten-free, cornmeal is naturally gluten-free and can be used as a gluten-free alternative to traditional breadcrumbs.
• Price: Panko breadcrumbs are typically more expensive than cornmeal due to their popularity and unique texture.

How to Store Panko Breadcrumbs to Keep Them Fresh?

To keep your Panko breadcrumbs fresh and crispy, it's important to store them properly. Here's how to store Panko breadcrumbs to ensure they stay fresh:

• Store Panko breadcrumbs in an airtight container that's been sealed tightly to keep out moisture and humidity.
• Store Panko breadcrumbs in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight, as exposure to heat and light can cause them to go stale quickly.
• Try to use Panko breadcrumbs within 3-6 months of opening, as they can start to lose their crispness and flavor over time.

What are Some Healthy Alternatives to Panko Breadcrumbs?

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to Panko breadcrumbs, there are several options you can try. Some of the best healthy substitutes for Panko breadcrumbs include:

• Almond flour or almond meal: Great for low-carb, gluten-free, or paleo diets, almond flour adds a nutty flavor and a crispy texture to your dishes.
• Ground oats or oat bran: An excellent source of fiber and complex carbs, ground oats or oat bran create a light and crispy texture on fried and baked foods.
• Crushed whole grain cereal or granola: A high-fiber, low-sugar alternative to Panko breadcrumbs, crushed whole grain cereal or granola adds a nutty flavor and a crunchy texture to your dishes.
• Ground flaxseed: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, ground flaxseed creates a hearty and flavorful coating on fried and baked foods.