Irresistible Chicken Parmesan Recipe: A Weeknight Delight

The aroma of crispy, golden-brown chicken parmesan wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses and promising a delicious meal. Picture tender chicken, coated in a savory breadcrumb crust, smothered in rich marinara sauce and melted cheese—pure culinary bliss. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that transforms an ordinary weeknight into something spectacular.

As I recall my first attempt at making chicken parmesan, I remember a chaotic kitchen filled with laughter and a few too many spills. It was a family gathering where everyone pitched in to create this mouthwatering masterpiece. The sheer joy of cooking together made every moment memorable. Now, let’s dive into the world of chicken parmesan and discover why it deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire! For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.

Ingredients for chicken parmesan

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: You’ll need about 3-4 chicken breasts for this recipe; they should be uniform in size for even cooking.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide an extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs, giving your chicken that satisfying texture.

• Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor; it adds depth to the breading and melts beautifully.

• Marinara Sauce: A good quality jarred sauce saves time; look for one with natural ingredients for better taste.

• Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella for that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience that pulls apart perfectly.

• Eggs: You’ll need eggs to help bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken; they add moisture as well.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil and oregano enhances the flavor profile of your chicken.

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: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Pound them gently with a meat mallet until they’re about half an inch thick—this ensures even cooking.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Station

In one bowl, whisk together two eggs with a splash of water. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture first, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture before placing them on the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until cooked through and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese

Remove from oven and spoon marinara sauce evenly over each piece of chicken. Top generously with fresh mozzarella slices. Return to oven for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch—enjoy your homemade chicken parmesan!

Creating this delightful dish will not only fill your stomach but also warm your heart as you share it with loved ones around the dinner table. So roll up those sleeves and get ready to impress everyone (including yourself) with this easy yet sensational chicken parmesan!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the pasta while simultaneously preparing the sauce. This multitasking approach ensures that everything is hot and ready to serve at the same time, making your dinner experience seamless and delicious.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out traditional breadcrumbs for panko for extra crunch, or use zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a low-carb option. Toss in some fresh basil or sprinkle with red pepper flakes to spice things up!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover chicken parmesan, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, ensuring it’s heated evenly without losing that delightful crispiness.

After trying this chicken parmesan recipe during a family gathering, I was met with cheers, and my niece even declared me “the best chef ever.” Trust me; you’ll want to make this dish again and again!

FAQs :

What is chicken parmesan?

Chicken parmesan, also known as chicken parmigiana, is a popular Italian-American dish featuring breaded and fried chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Typically served over pasta, this dish combines savory flavors and crispy textures. It’s a comfort food favorite that can be easily made at home or ordered in restaurants.

How do I make chicken parmesan from scratch?

To make chicken parmesan from scratch, start by flattening chicken breasts for even cooking. Dip them in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs before frying until golden. Next, layer the cooked chicken with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Bake until the cheese melts and bubbles. Serve it with spaghetti or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make chicken parmesan healthier?

Yes, you can make a healthier version of chicken parmesan by baking instead of frying the chicken. Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour for breading to add more nutrients. Opt for low-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese used. Pair it with steamed vegetables instead of pasta to create a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor.

What to serve with chicken parmesan?

Chicken parmesan pairs well with various sides. Classic choices include spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in marinara sauce. You can also serve it with a side salad dressed in vinaigrette or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, consider roasted vegetables or zucchini noodles.

Conclusion for chicken parmesan :

In summary, chicken parmesan is a delightful dish that blends crispy chicken with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. Making this recipe from scratch allows you to customize flavors while exploring healthier alternatives is easy too. Whether served over pasta or alongside a fresh salad, this beloved comfort food remains a favorite for many families. Enjoy experimenting with different variations to find your perfect version of chicken parmesan! For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.

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Chicken Parmesan

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a culinary delight. Imagine tender, breaded chicken breasts topped with zesty marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella cheese, all perfectly baked to golden perfection. This comforting meal is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser any night of the week.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Nonstick cooking spray

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and gently pound until about half an inch thick.
3. In one bowl, whisk eggs with a splash of water. In another bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture before placing them in the baking dish.
5. Bake for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven; spoon marinara sauce over each piece and top with mozzarella slices. Return to oven for another 10-15 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 41g
• Cholesterol: 165mg

Keywords: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Swap spaghetti for zucchini noodles for a healthier low-carb option. Enhance flavor by adding fresh basil or crushed red pepper flakes.