Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Chicken parmesan recipe is a delightful journey into the heart of Italian-American cuisine! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts, perfectly breaded and baked to golden perfection, then lovingly topped with rich marinara sauce and a generous sprinkle of gooey mozzarella cheese. This dish is a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or cozy date nights. Serve it over a bed of spaghetti or with a side of garlic bread, and watch as smiles light up the table. Get ready to savor every bite of this comforting classic!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Equipment
- 1 baking dish For assembling and baking the chicken.
- 1 Large skillet For frying the breaded chicken.
- 3 Shallow bowls For setting up the breading station.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces Chicken breasts Boneless and skinless.
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs Panko recommended for extra crunch.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Freshly grated for best flavor.
- 1 cup Marinara sauce Flavorful tomato base.
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese Shredded for topping.
- 2 pieces Eggs Beaten for binding.
- 1/4 cup Olive oil For frying.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning For flavor enhancement.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential for seasoning.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the chicken breasts and gently pound them to an even thickness.
Breading Station
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and Italian seasoning.
Bread the Chicken
- Coat each chicken breast in flour, dip in eggs, and then press into the breadcrumb mixture.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the breaded chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Assemble the Dish
- Spread marinara sauce in a baking dish, place the chicken on top, add more sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
- Let cool for a few minutes, then serve over spaghetti or with a side salad.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- It’s a cozy dish that warms your heart and home.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up any night.
- Perfectly crispy chicken paired with gooey cheese is pure bliss.
- Customize it with your favorite herbs for a personal touch.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Course |
| Cuisine: | Italian |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free Option Available |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | With pasta or salad |
Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Chicken breasts – the star of the dish, providing lean protein and a juicy base.
- Breadcrumbs – for that perfect crispy coating; consider using panko for extra crunch.
- Parmesan cheese – adds a rich, nutty flavor; freshly grated works best.
- Marinara sauce – a flavorful tomato base that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Mozzarella cheese – melts wonderfully to create a gooey topping.
- Eggs – used to bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken for a crispy crust.
- Olive oil – for frying; adds flavor and helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
- Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make the Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Get ready to create a delicious chicken parmesan that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and gently pound them to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy!
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station: one with 1 cup of all-purpose flour, another with 2 beaten eggs, and the last with 1 cup of breadcrumbs mixed with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Repeat for all chicken breasts!
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. You may need to do this in batches!
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the cooked chicken on top, then generously spoon more marinara sauce over each piece. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and a bit more Parmesan for good measure!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve your chicken parmesan over a bed of spaghetti or with a side salad. Dig in and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!
Pro Tips for Making the Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Use fresh mozzarella for a gooey, melty texture that elevates your dish.
- Let the chicken rest after frying to keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for a personalized touch.
- For a crispy coating, double-dip the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs.
- Serve with a side of pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Serve over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a classic touch.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Top with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Accompany with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the sauce.
- For a lighter option, serve with steamed vegetables or a quinoa salad.
- Offer a side of marinara sauce for extra dipping and flavor.
- Try it with a side of creamy polenta for a comforting twist.
- For a fun twist, serve in a sandwich with crusty bread and a side of chips.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your chicken parmesan fresh:
- Allow it to cool completely before storing.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
For long-term storage:
- Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To enjoy your chicken parmesan again:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- For a quick option, use the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
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FAQs
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option?
You can use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour as a substitute for traditional breadcrumbs. Both options will give you a nice crunch while keeping the dish gluten-free and delicious!
Can I make chicken parmesan ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then assemble and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just keep everything covered in the fridge to maintain freshness.
What side dishes pair well with chicken parmesan?
Chicken parmesan pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or even pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic. These sides complement the flavors and make for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers properly?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven for the best texture, or use the microwave for a quicker option.