Chicken Parmesan

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Cheesy: The breaded chicken is perfectly crispy, while the melted cheese adds a rich, creamy texture.

• Classic Comfort Food: Chicken Parmesan is a go-to favorite that satisfies cravings for hearty, savory meals.

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to prepare.

• Customizable: You can serve it over pasta, with a side of veggies, or even on a sandwich for a versatile meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or basil/oregano)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Olive oil, for frying

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

2. Prep the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are too thick, you can slice them in half horizontally to make them thinner and ensure even cooking. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Bread the Chicken:

3. Set Up the Breading Station: In one shallow dish, place the flour. In another dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.

4. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well to the chicken.

Cook the Chicken:

5. Fry the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Assemble the Dish:

6. Add Sauce and Cheese: Place the fried chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

7. Bake: Transfer the chicken to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serve:

8. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat.

• Chicken Parmesan with Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of spaghetti, penne, or any pasta of your choice for a more traditional Chicken Parmesan experience.

• Eggplant Parmesan: Substitute the chicken with thinly sliced eggplant for a vegetarian version.

• Cheese Variations: Swap the mozzarella for provolone, gouda, or fontina for a different cheesy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken (without sauce and cheese) for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crispy.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven to keep the chicken crispy, or microwave with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Parmesan without frying?

Yes! To make it healthier, you can bake the breaded chicken breasts at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes before adding the sauce and cheese. This will give you a crispy crust without the need for frying.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie chicken. Just skip the frying step and proceed with the sauce and cheese, then bake until the cheese is melted.

What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?

Chicken Parmesan pairs wonderfully with a side of pasta, garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.

Can I use a different sauce for Chicken Parmesan?

Yes! While marinara is traditional, you can use other sauces like Alfredo sauce or pesto for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With crispy breaded chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melty cheese, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and guarantees a delicious, satisfying meal every time. Enjoy!