The aroma of bubbling marinara sauce and crispy, golden-brown chicken wafts through the air, making your mouth water in anticipation. Chicken parmesan is the kind of dish that transforms an ordinary weeknight into a memorable culinary adventure. It’s like having a cozy Italian restaurant right in your kitchen, minus the need for pants that fit after dinner.
Imagine biting into a tender piece of chicken, perfectly coated in breadcrumbs and smothered with gooey mozzarella cheese. Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by the rich flavors of tomato sauce that dance on your taste buds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting friends for dinner, or just treating yourself because it’s Tuesday (and why not?), this dish promises to elevate any meal to new heights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken parmesan recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time
- It’s incredibly flavorful with its cheesy, saucy goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds
- The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Perfect for family dinners but versatile enough for meal prepping or serving at gatherings
Ingredients for chicken parmesan
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: You’ll need about 3-4 chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
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All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for dredging the chicken before it gets crispy; it helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick.
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Large Eggs: A couple of eggs will create the perfect binding mixture for your breadcrumbs.
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Breadcrumbs: Use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor; they give the chicken that crunchy texture we all crave.
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Marinara Sauce: Homemade or store-bought—just ensure it’s rich and full of flavor because this is where most of the taste comes from.
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Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts beautifully; use a generous amount for that ooey-gooey effect we all love.
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Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top adds depth and nuttiness to your dish.
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Fresh Basil (optional): For garnish, fresh basil adds a pop of color and freshness to your plated masterpiece.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make chicken parmesan
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepping the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, lay out three shallow dishes: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with whisked eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Dredging
Take each chicken breast and first coat it in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture before finally pressing it into the breadcrumbs until well-coated.
Step 3: Cooking
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer them to a baking dish afterward.
Step 4: Sauce It Up
Pour marinara sauce generously over each breast in the baking dish. Don’t be shy! Then sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly across all pieces along with some grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Baking
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown while ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
Step 6: Garnishing and Serving
Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving—it’s like putting a fancy hat on your culinary creation!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Now grab your fork; it’s time to dig in!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken parmesan recipe brings more than just flavor; it makes dinner feel like a special occasion
- With its crispy coating and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that delights everyone at the table
- Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve restaurant-quality chicken parmesan, start by searing the chicken until golden. While it’s cooking, prepare your pasta and sauce simultaneously to keep everything warm and delicious. Timing is key for that perfect bite! For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this chicken parmesan recipe! Swap out the mozzarella for provolone, add fresh basil for an aromatic twist, or even experiment with veggie sides like zucchini noodles. Let your creativity shine!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken parmesan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F to keep the crust crispy and cheese melty. No soggy chicken here!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy chicken parmesan, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor, and don’t skip letting the chicken rest after cooking to lock in moisture
Sometimes I wonder if my family loves chicken parmesan more than they love me—just kidding! The way they rave about this dish always brings a smile to my face and makes all the effort worth it.
FAQs :
What is chicken parmesan?
Chicken parmesan, also known as chicken parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish. It consists of breaded chicken cutlets that are fried until golden brown and then topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, typically mozzarella. The dish is often served over pasta or with a side salad. Its rich flavors and crispy texture make it a favorite among many, and it’s easy to prepare at home with simple ingredients.
How do I make chicken parmesan healthier?
To make chicken parmesan healthier, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs for the breading. You can also bake the chicken instead of frying it, which reduces fat content. Using low-fat cheese or part-skim mozzarella can further decrease calorie intake while still providing that gooey texture. Adding fresh vegetables to the marinara sauce can boost nutritional value without compromising flavor.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute other proteins for chicken in this classic dish. For example, eggplant or zucchini can be used for a vegetarian option, providing a similar texture when breaded and baked. Additionally, turkey cutlets offer a leaner alternative that still delivers great taste. Just ensure that cooking times may vary based on the protein you choose.
What sides pair well with chicken parmesan?
Chicken parmesan pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Traditional options include spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in marinara sauce. A simple green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. Garlic bread is another popular choice, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Conclusion for chicken parmesan :
In summary, chicken parmesan is a beloved dish that combines crispy breaded chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese to create a comforting meal. By making slight adjustments to ingredients and cooking methods, you can tailor this recipe to fit healthier lifestyles while preserving its deliciousness. Whether you serve it over pasta or alongside fresh vegetables, chicken parmesan remains a satisfying choice for any dinner table. Enjoy this delightful dish any night of the week! For more inspiration, check out this main dishes recipes recipe.
Chicken Parmesan
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Parmesan is a delightful, classic Italian-American dish that brings comfort to your dinner table. This recipe features succulent breaded chicken breasts drenched in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for any occasion, Chicken Parmesan is easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends with its irresistible crunch and savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with whisked eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the breaded chicken until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes on each side), then transfer to a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over each chicken breast and top generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
