Chicken Parmesan Recipe

There's nothing more comforting than a plate of Chicken Parmesan fresh out of the oven, the golden breaded chicken smothered in marinara sauce and bubbling mozzarella cheese. The aroma of Italian spices, tangy tomato sauce, and crispy chicken is simply irresistible.

this Recipe

I remember the first time I made Chicken Parmesan—it was for a family dinner, and I was nervous about getting the balance just right. It turned out to be such a hit that it’s now my go-to recipe for special occasions and casual weeknights alike. Let’s dive into what makes this dish a crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Parmesan

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food! Chicken Parmesan is an all-time favorite for good reason.

First, it’s easier to make than you might think. Despite its restaurant-quality flavor, this recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners and perfect for impressing guests.

Secondly, the combination of crispy breaded chicken, savory marinara, and melted mozzarella is pure magic. The texture contrast between the crispy coating and gooey cheese makes every bite a delight.

You’ll also love how versatile this recipe is. Serve it over a bed of spaghetti, alongside roasted veggies, or even in a sandwich for a delicious twist.

Lastly, it’s a family-friendly meal that even picky eaters adore. This recipe is a guaranteed way to bring everyone to the table!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Chicken Parmesan lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. Pound them to an even thickness to ensure quick and even cooking.
• Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs or mix plain ones with Italian seasoning for a flavorful crust. For extra crunch, combine with panko.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the breading its signature flavor. Pre-grated options work in a pinch, but the fresh stuff makes all the difference.
• Marinara sauce: Use a high-quality jarred sauce or make your own. The sauce should be rich, tangy, and slightly sweet to complement the chicken.
• Mozzarella cheese: Fresh mozzarella creates the best melt, but shredded mozzarella is a convenient alternative.
• Eggs and flour: These are essential for breading the chicken and ensuring the coating adheres beautifully.
• Olive oil: Use a light olive oil for frying. It imparts great flavor without overpowering the dish.

You’ll also need a sturdy skillet for frying and a baking dish to finish the chicken in the oven.

How To Make This Chicken Parmesan

Making Chicken Parmesan at home is simpler than you’d think! Follow these steps to achieve crispy, golden perfection.

1. Prepare the chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about ½ inch. This step ensures they cook evenly and quickly.
2. Set up the breading station: In three shallow bowls, place flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, then in eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating.
3. Fry the chicken: Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Assemble the dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Arrange the chicken breasts on top, then spoon marinara sauce over each piece. Add a generous layer of shredded or sliced mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
5. Bake to perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

This dish takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for both busy nights and leisurely dinners.

Storage Options

Chicken Parmesan stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Allow the chicken to cool completely before wrapping each piece tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: For the best results, reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through. This keeps the breading crispy and the cheese melty. Microwaving works too but may soften the crust.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Chicken Parmesan is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a version that everyone can enjoy.
• Keto-Friendly: Skip the breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead.
• Different proteins: Try this recipe with eggplant or zucchini for a vegetarian twist, or use thinly sliced pork chops for a meaty variation.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a little heat.
• Cheese swap: Experiment with provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

Feel free to experiment with these variations—you might discover a new family favorite!

This Chicken Parmesan recipe is a true classic that’s sure to win hearts and taste buds. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a bustling family gathering, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try it tonight and let me know how it turns out!

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