The aroma of bubbling marinara sauce and crispy, golden-brown chicken fills the air as you approach the dinner table. Chicken Parmesan is like a cozy hug for your taste buds, combining gooey cheese, savory herbs, and tender chicken in perfect harmony. Bolognese sauce pairing.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a memory-maker. Picture yourself gathered around the table with family or friends, everyone’s face lighting up as they take their first bite. Perfect for any occasion, Chicken Parmesan delivers an unforgettable flavor experience that brings warmth and joy to every gathering. For more inspiration, check out this Sticky Honey Chicken recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Parmesan recipe is incredibly easy to prepare while delivering bold flavors that will impress everyone
- Its visual appeal makes it a standout dish for any dinner party
- This recipe is versatile; serve it alongside pasta, salad, or even on a sandwich
- Best of all, it can be made ahead of time and reheated without losing its deliciousness
I remember the first time I made Chicken Parmesan for my friends; their delighted faces were priceless. They insisted I open a restaurant right then and there!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose 3-4 breasts for a satisfying meal; adjust based on your crowd size.
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All-Purpose Flour: For dredging the chicken, flour gives it that perfect crispy coating.
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Eggs: Lightly beaten eggs help the breadcrumbs stick like they’re best friends at a reunion.
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Breadcrumbs: I prefer seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra flavor kick; they add crunch and zest.
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Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite homemade or store-bought version; quality sauce makes all the difference!
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Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella; its creamy texture melts beautifully atop the chicken. Creamy Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a sharp flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the dish.
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Basil Leaves: Fresh basil brings fragrant notes that elevate this classic Italian dish.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for frying to enhance flavor while keeping things healthy.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grab a baking dish to prepare for tasty magic. Lightly grease your dish with some olive oil so nothing sticks later.
Dredge the Chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs before coating them in breadcrumbs. Make sure they are evenly coated; we want them dressed to impress!
Fry Until Golden: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot enough (you know it’s ready when it shimmers), add your chicken pieces one by one. Fry them until they’re golden brown on both sides—about 3-4 minutes per side should do.
Add Marinara Sauce and Cheese: Once perfectly browned, transfer the chicken to your prepared baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece before topping them with slices of fresh mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake to Perfection: Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when you see golden edges and heavenly aromas wafting through your kitchen.
Garnish & Serve!: Once done baking, remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for that pop of color and flavor. Grab a fork and dig in! Serve with pasta or crusty bread for an amazing meal experience.
Enjoy making this delightful Chicken Parmesan recipe that promises to impress not just with its taste but also its easy preparation! Chicken Linguine with Cowboy Butter.
You Must Know
- Chicken Parmesan combines crispy chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheese
- This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
- The enticing aromas and delightful crunch make it an unforgettable meal that’s easy to master
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken in a hot skillet until golden brown, then bake while preparing your marinara sauce. This method ensures juicy chicken with a crispy exterior and perfectly melded flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different cheeses like provolone or add fresh basil for a pop of flavor. You can also try zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a lighter option.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring the cheese remains melty and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pound the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and tenderness
- Use fresh herbs for vibrant flavor, and don’t skip on letting the chicken rest after cooking for juiciness
Sharing this Chicken Parmesan recipe transformed our family dinners into culinary celebrations! My kids still rave about how it became their favorite comfort food, making me feel like a superstar chef. Cheesy Stuffed Flank Steak.
FAQ
What type of chicken is best for Chicken Parmesan?
Use boneless skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and easy breading.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it up to baking, then refrigerate until ready to cook.
What side dishes pair well with Chicken Parmesan?
Serve with spaghetti or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.
Chicken Parmesan
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Juicy, breaded chicken breasts are layered with rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella and sharp Parmesan cheese, then baked until bubbly. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe captures the essence of comfort food while being simple enough for any home cook to master.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; dredge in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; fry chicken until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the fried chicken to the baking dish; top with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly; garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (200g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
