Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that combines crispy breaded chicken with tangy marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The flavors in this dish are a perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and tangy.
- With a quick prep time, this recipe is great for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Chicken Parmesan is a versatile dish that can be served with pasta, salad, or veggies.
Ingredient Notes:
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut in half horizontally to make breast halves for even cooking.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds a rich and nutty flavor to the breading.
- Eggs: Used to bind the breading to the chicken.
- Panko bread crumbs: Provide a crispy and light texture to the chicken.
- Italian style bread crumbs: Can be substituted with panko for extra flavor.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle kick of garlic flavor to the breading.
- Oil: Used for frying the breaded chicken.
- Marinara sauce: Use store-bought or homemade for a fresh taste.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken.
- Fresh basil leaves: For a pop of freshness when serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow dish, mix together panko bread crumbs, Italian style bread crumbs, garlic powder, and half of the parmesan cheese.
- In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- Dip each chicken breast half into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and fry the breaded chicken until golden brown on both sides.
- Place the fried chicken on the prepared baking sheet and top each piece with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and remaining parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot with fresh basil leaves on top.
Helpful Tips:
- For a healthier version, bake the breaded chicken instead of frying.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Make extra breaded chicken and freeze for later use.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Let the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Chicken Parmesan pairs well with a side of spaghetti or garlic bread. A crisp green salad and a glass of red wine would complete the meal perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the crispy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs for this recipe, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. - Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to fry and bake. - Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken before frying for up to 3 months. Just thaw and follow the cooking instructions when ready to eat.
Conclusion:
Next time you’re craving a comforting and satisfying meal, give this Chicken Parmesan recipe a try. It’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Chicken Parmesan
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Chicken Parmesan recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture, topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally to make 6 breast halves
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup Italian style bread crumbs, or panko
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 Tablespoons oil
- 24 ounces marinara sauce, or HOMEMADE
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- fresh basil leaves, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Coat the chicken: In a shallow dish, mix 1/4 cup parmesan cheese with breadcrumbs and garlic powder. In another dish, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken breast in the eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Cook the chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown on each side. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
- Top with sauce and cheese: Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast and sprinkle with remaining parmesan cheese and mozzarella.
- Bake: Bake for about 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- You can serve the Chicken Parmesan over pasta or with a side of salad for a complete meal.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg