Chicken Parmesan is a tasty dish that features breaded chicken topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
You’ll love how the crispy chicken pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness. I could eat this every day and never get tired of it. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use turkey breasts instead.
Breadcrumbs: I highly recommend using panko breadcrumbs as they give a delightful crunch. If you don’t have any, traditional Italian-style breadcrumbs work just fine.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful rich flavors. You can swap it for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought sauce is quick and easy, but making your own has its perks! You can control the seasonings and keep it fresh. If you’re short on time, a good quality jarred sauce will also do the trick.
What’s the Best Way to Bread Chicken for a Crispy Coating?
Breading chicken is essential for that satisfying crunch. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Set up three shallow dishes: one for flour, one for the egg mixture, and one for the breadcrumb mix.
- Be sure each chicken piece is well-seasoned before breading to pack in flavor.
- First, dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs on firmly to ensure they stick!
- Fry in hot oil for the best results. This will create that golden crispy outside you want.
Following these steps will help ensure that your Chicken Parmesan comes out beautifully crispy and delicious!
Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Breading Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Cooking Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil or more for frying
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish
Time Needed:
This Chicken Parmesan recipe will take around 15 minutes for preparation and about 20-25 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at approximately 40-45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests on the weekend!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for when your chicken is perfectly breaded!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. If you prefer, you can pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Set Up the Breading Station:
Grab three shallow dishes. In the first one, add the flour. In the second, mix the eggs with the tablespoon of water. In the third, combine the breadcrumbs, half of the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, dried basil (if using), and red pepper flakes. This is where the magic happens!
4. Bread the Chicken:
Dredge each chicken cutlet first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Don’t forget to press gently to ensure the crumbs stick well!
5. Pan-Fry the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken. Cook each piece until it’s golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. When done, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Assemble in a Baking Dish:
Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a baking dish. Then, take the crispy chicken cutlets and place them on top.
7. Top with Marinara and Cheese:
Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over each chicken cutlet. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and the leftover Parmesan evenly over the top. Get ready for some cheesiness!
8. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to melt and bubble, and make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Rest and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let the Chicken Parmesan rest for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a lovely touch.
10. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken Parmesan hot alongside your favorite pasta, a fresh salad, or even some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Happy cooking and enjoy your crispy, cheesy Chicken Parmesan!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking! Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or even cornflakes can work as alternatives! You can also use crushed oats for a whole-grain option. Just make sure to season them well!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps retain the crispy coating!
Can I Make This Meal Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can bread the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake them together as instructed for a quick weeknight meal!