If there’s one dish that effortlessly marries comfort with elegance, it’s the irresistible Chicken Parmesan. This classic Italian-American dish is a delightful symphony of crispy chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and ooey-gooey layers of cheese, making it a favorite for any dinner table. Perfect for family gatherings or a romantic dinner for two, Chicken Parmesan never fails to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crunchy Perfection: The combination of Panko and traditional breadcrumbs gives the chicken a delightful, crispy texture that’s unbeatable.
- Flavor Explosion: Fresh basil and parsley add a burst of freshness that complements the savory richness of the cheese and marinara sauce.
- Versatile & Easy: Perfect for any occasion, it’s a dish that feels special yet is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
- Family Favorite: Guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike, making it a win-win for family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Parmesan recipe relies on a handful of staple ingredients that truly shine. Each element, from the juicy chicken breasts to the tangy marinara sauce, plays a part in creating a dish that’s both familiar and extraordinary.
- Chicken Breasts: Use boneless and skinless for the best results; they cook evenly and quickly.
- All-purpose Flour: Helps the breadcrumbs stick and ensures a crispy coating.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs add an extra crunch that’s delightful.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose a good-quality sauce or homemade for a rich, flavorful base.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the best flavor – avoid pre-grated if possible.
Variations
Chicken Parmesan is incredibly versatile and easy to adapt according to your needs. Whether you’re looking to tweak the flavors or accommodate dietary requirements, there are plenty of ways to make this dish your own.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap traditional breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative without compromising on taste or texture.
- Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinara for an extra kick that spice lovers will adore.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with thick slices of eggplant for a hearty, meat-free alternative.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping your breading station. You’ll need three shallow dishes: one for the flour, one for the beaten eggs, and a third for the breadcrumb mix. This setup ensures an even and delicious crust on your chicken.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
Carefully dredge each chicken piece in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. This sequence guarantees every bite remains crispy and flavorful.
Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat up some vegetable oil in a large pan. Fry the coated chicken until each side is golden brown, about four minutes per side. Remember, we’re aiming for a crispy exterior without drying out the meat.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Place the browned chicken in a baking dish, top with marinara sauce, and a mix of mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. This baked finish infuses the dish with flavor and warmth.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh basil over the top for a burst of color and aroma. Serve your Chicken Parmesan over pasta or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Parmesan
- Coating Magic: Let the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better during cooking.
- Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is well-preheated to 425°F for even cooking and a delightfully crispy finish.
- Cheese Choice: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melt and stretch factor that takes this dish to the next level.
- Sauce Layer: Don’t overdo the marinara – a light layer will prevent soggy breading while still providing rich flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan
Garnishes
A few sprigs of fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated parmesan can elevate your Chicken Parmesan from delightful to divine. Fresh herbs bring color and an aromatic freshness that is sure to impress.
Side Dishes
Pair your chicken with classic spaghetti tossed in olive oil, or opt for a healthier side like steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans. A tangy side salad also complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, serve Chicken Parmesan in individual gratin dishes with a small bundle of pasta on the side. A generous dusting of freshly grated parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil adds the final touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For best results, keep the chicken separate from the sauce to maintain the breading’s crispness.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Chicken Parmesan by wrapping each piece in foil and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months, ready to be reheated whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
Reheat chicken in a 375°F oven until it’s warmed through to preserve its texture. A microwave can work in a pinch, but it might cause the breading to become less crispy.
FAQs
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Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs can be used for Chicken Parmesan and will provide a juicier cut. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly.
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What type of marinara sauce is best?
A high-quality store-bought or homemade marinara with minimal ingredients and a rich tomato flavor works best for this dish.
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How can I make it less greasy?
Try baking the chicken instead of frying. Opt for a light spray of oil before placing the chicken under the grill to achieve a crispy finish.
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Is it suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Chicken Parmesan can be prepped ahead of time. Prepare the chicken, sauce, and cheese separately and assemble just before baking.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Parmesan is a cozy classic that deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation. Its harmony of flavors and textures is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters. Give it a try and let this delightful dish transport you straight to Italy!
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Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Contains dairy and gluten; can be modified for gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour
Description
This classic Chicken Parmesan recipe features tender breaded chicken breasts topped with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, baked to perfection. It’s a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions, served best over spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts boneless and skinless, cut in half horizontally to make 8 pieces
Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Frying
- 3 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying
Toppings
- 24 ounce marinara sauce (1 jar)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the assembled chicken parmesan.
- Prepare breading stations: Place flour in a shallow dish. Beat eggs in a second dish, seasoned with salt and pepper. Mix Panko, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a third shallow dish.
- Bread chicken: Dip each chicken piece into flour, shaking off excess. Then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere firmly.
- Fry chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chicken until golden brown on each side, about 4 minutes per side, ensuring a crispy exterior but not fully cooked through. Alternatively, air fry at 380°F for 7 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Assemble dish: Spread 1 ½ cups of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place browned chicken on top. Spoon additional marinara sauce over each piece, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and chopped basil.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden, and chicken registers 165°F (74°C). Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with extra basil if desired and serve hot over cooked spaghetti or your preferred pasta.
Notes
- Serve over spaghetti or your favorite pasta with a side of green vegetables like steamed broccoli or sautéed greens.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-5 days, best kept with sauce and cheese separate to prevent sogginess when reheating.
- To reheat, microwave or bake at 350°F until warmed through and cheese is melty.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (about 150g)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
