Introduction and Quick Summary

Do you crave a dish that perfectly combines crispy chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese? Look no further than this Chicken Parmesan recipe. With its golden-brown crust and rich flavors, it promises to be a delightful experience that tantalizes your taste buds from the very first bite.

This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. As you savor the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen, you’ll feel an irresistible urge to dig in. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into why this Chicken Parmesan recipe deserves a spot in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe allows you to whip up a delicious meal in under an hour. Perfect for busy weekdays.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with pasta, on a sub roll for sandwiches, or alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for optimal serving size; ensure they are even thickness for uniform cooking.
• All-Purpose Flour: For dredging the chicken before breading; it helps create a nice crispy exterior.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binding agent for the breadcrumbs to adhere to the chicken.
• Italian Breadcrumbs: These add flavor and texture; you can also use panko for extra crunchiness.
• Marinara Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought; it should be rich and flavorful to complement the chicken.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella works best but any shredded variety will melt beautifully on top.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds depth of flavor; sprinkle on top before baking.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Chopped basil adds freshness and enhances presentation.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, then into the egg mixture, followed by coating them generously in breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, cook the breaded chicken pieces for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Place cooked chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece and top generously with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Transfer the baking dish to your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Use a meat mallet to pound chicken breasts evenly; this ensures they’ll cook uniformly.
• Let It Rest After Cooking: Allow cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps retain juiciness.
• Add Extra Flavor: Season breadcrumbs with garlic powder or herbs like oregano or thyme for additional flavor.

Mistakes to avoid

• Skipping the Seasoning: One common mistake when preparing the Chicken Parmesan recipe is neglecting to season the chicken. Many cooks assume that the sauce will provide enough flavor, but seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs is essential for building depth. A well-seasoned piece of chicken will enhance the overall dish. Take time to sprinkle salt and pepper generously before cooking for a delicious outcome.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Another pitfall is using low-quality cheese for topping. Authentic Chicken Parmesan requires a rich and melty cheese like mozzarella or provolone. Opting for pre-shredded cheese can lead to an inferior texture and taste due to additives that prevent melting. Choosing fresh cheese not only improves flavor but also elevates the presentation of your dish.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooking is a frequent mistake that can ruin your Chicken Parmesan recipe. When chicken breasts are cooked too long, they become dry and tough. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This step ensures moist and tender chicken that pairs beautifully with the sauce and cheese.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Parmesan Recipe is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• • Pasta: Serve over spaghetti or fettuccine for a classic Italian meal.

• • Salad: A fresh side salad balances the richness of the dish.

• Breadsticks: Garlic bread or breadsticks complement this recipe beautifully.

FAQs

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs in Chicken Parmesan Recipe?

If you’re looking for alternatives to traditional breadcrumbs in this Chicken Parmesan Recipe, consider using crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Gluten-free options like almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs also work well. You may use ground oats or cornmeal as substitutes too; these will provide different textures while still delivering delicious results. Just make sure to season your substitutes accordingly to maintain flavor.

Can I make this Chicken Parmesan Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. Preparing this Chicken Parmesan Recipe ahead of time is quite convenient. You can assemble everything up to the baking step and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through thoroughly. This method not only saves you time but also allows flavors to meld beautifully.

What sides pair well with Chicken Parmesan?

When serving Chicken Parmesan, you can enhance your meal with various sides that complement its flavors. Classic choices include garlic bread or spaghetti with marinara sauce; both are traditional Italian pairings. Alternatively, steamed vegetables or a crisp Caesar salad provide freshness that balances out the richness of this dish perfectly.

Can I freeze leftovers from my Chicken Parmesan Recipe?

Yes. Freezing leftovers from your Chicken Parmesan Recipe is an excellent way to enjoy it later without compromising flavor. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and placing them in an airtight container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in an oven until heated through.

Conclusion for Chicken Parmesan Recipe

In conclusion, this Chicken Parmesan Recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to please any palate. By following simple preparation steps and using fresh ingredients, you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home. Remember to pair your dish with complementary sides like pasta or salad for a complete meal experience.

With options for substitutes and storage tips provided, you can customize this recipe according to your preferences while ensuring it remains delicious every time you make it. Enjoy creating this comforting classic that brings warmth and joy to any dining table.

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Chicken Parmesan Recipe

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• Author: Ann Foster
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that features tender, breaded chicken breasts topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This easy Chicken Parmesan recipe allows you to create a mouthwatering meal in under an hour, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions. With its golden crust and aromatic flavors, this dish will surely delight your family and impress your guests. Serve it alongside spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for a satisfying and well-rounded dinner that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Set up three shallow bowls: one for seasoned flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs.
3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip into the egg mixture, then coat generously in breadcrumbs.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Place the cooked chicken in the baking dish, top with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for approximately 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (142g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 165mg