There’s something about chicken parmesan that instantly brings a smile to your face and a rumble to your stomach. Picture this: tender, breaded chicken breasts smothered in rich marinara sauce, topped with gooey, melted cheese, all served over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, ready to make your day infinitely better.
Now, let’s be real for a moment. Whether you’re hosting the family dinner or having a cozy night in with your Netflix binge-watching marathon, chicken parmesan is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The way it bubbles and oozes cheese can only be described as culinary magic. So grab your apron and get ready to whip up this dish that’s sure to impress! For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious chicken parmesan is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its savory flavor profile boasts tangy marinara and creamy cheese that everyone adores
- With its golden-brown crust and vibrant colors, it looks as good as it tastes!
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with pasta or on its own for a low-carb option
Ingredients for chicken parmesan
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work perfectly; ensure they are evenly sized for even cooking.
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All-Purpose Flour: This helps create a crispy coating when dredging the chicken.
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Eggs: Use two eggs for an egg wash; they’ll help the breadcrumbs stick beautifully.
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Breadcrumbs: Choose seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor; panko works great for added crunch.
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Marinara Sauce: Store-bought or homemade; pick one that makes your taste buds sing!
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Because what’s chicken parmesan without gooey cheese? Aim for the good stuff!
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Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkling of this adds an extra layer of flavor and sophistication.
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Fresh Basil: Fresh basil leaves make everything taste better; plus, they look stunning as a garnish.
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 the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season each chicken breast with salt and pepper on both sides. Set out three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one filled with breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Dredging Time
Start by dipping each seasoned chicken breast first into the flour (shake off excess), then into the egg wash (let it drip), followed by the breadcrumbs (press firmly so they stick!). Place your coated chicken breasts onto a plate.
Step 4: Searing the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil. Once hot, carefully place in your breaded chicken pieces. Cook until golden brown on both sides—about four minutes per side should do.
Step 5: Assembly Line
Once seared beautifully, transfer the chicken breasts into your prepared baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece and sprinkle mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop that glorious dish into your preheated oven and bake for about twenty minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce if desired—don’t be shy! Garnish with fresh basil before serving and enjoy every cheesy bite!
And there you have it! An irresistible chicken parmesan that not only fills bellies but warms hearts too!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken parmesan recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for pairing with pasta but versatile enough to serve with salad or bread
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make the perfect chicken parmesan, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While that’s happening, cook your pasta to al dente and prepare the sauce simultaneously. This sequence saves time and ensures everything is fresh and delicious.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch out the mozzarella for provolone or add some spinach for an extra health boost. You can also sprinkle in your favorite herbs or spices to elevate those flavors—get creative!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken parmesan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F until heated through for that crispy edge again!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness; this will help them cook evenly and stay juicy
- Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged for better flavor and meltability
- Allow your dish to rest before serving; this helps the flavors meld beautifully
Sharing my first attempt at making chicken parmesan brings back some hilarious memories. My family was convinced I was auditioning for a cooking show, complete with flour explosions everywhere! For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.
FAQs :
What is chicken parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is an Italian-American dish made with breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. The chicken is typically coated in breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese before frying or baking. This dish is often served over pasta, making it a delicious and hearty meal that many enjoy.
How can I make chicken parmesan healthier?
To make chicken parmesan healthier, consider using baked chicken instead of fried. You can also substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs for traditional ones or use almond flour for a gluten-free option. Reducing the amount of cheese or using low-fat cheese can lower calories while still keeping the dish flavorful. Adding a side of vegetables helps balance the meal and boost nutrition.
Can I freeze chicken parmesan?
Yes, you can freeze chicken parmesan! To do so, cook the chicken and allow it to cool completely before assembling it with marinara sauce and cheese. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
What sides pair well with chicken parmesan?
Chicken parmesan pairs beautifully with various sides. Classic options include spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in olive oil or marinara sauce. A fresh green salad with Italian dressing adds a refreshing touch. Garlic bread is also popular for sopping up extra sauce. Roasted vegetables provide a healthy option that complements this savory dish.
Conclusion for chicken parmesan :
In conclusion, chicken parmesan is a delightful dish that brings together flavors of crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It offers versatility in preparation methods, allowing for healthier modifications if desired. Whether served over pasta or alongside fresh greens, this recipe satisfies both taste and comfort. Enjoying homemade chicken parmesan can elevate your dining experience while impressing friends and family alike.
Chicken Parmesan
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish that features crispy, breaded chicken cutlets topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this comforting classic is sure to delight everyone at your table. With its golden-brown crust and savory flavors, Chicken Parmesan is a dish that brings smiles and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in egg wash, then coat with breadcrumbs. Place on a plate.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear each breaded chicken breast until golden brown (about 4 minutes per side).
- Transfer the seared chicken to the baking dish, top with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs or spices to your breadcrumb mixture. You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or add spinach for a nutritional boost. To make this dish healthier, opt for baked instead of fried chicken.