This Chicken Parmesan is a simple yet tasty dish featuring breaded chicken covered in marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love serving it over pasta or with a side of garlic bread for a fun dinner. Let’s be honest, when cheese is involved, you know it’s going to be good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too, offering a richer flavor and more moisture.
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs give a flavorful crust. If you can’t find them, use plain breadcrumbs and add a mix of dried herbs like oregano and basil for flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for that authentic taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you could try nutritional yeast, which offers a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought sauce for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade marinara made from canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs is a tasty alternative.
How Do I Get the Perfect Breaded Chicken?
The breading process can be tricky, but it’s essential for achieving a great texture. Start by preparing your breadcrumb mixture well, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined.
- When dipping the chicken, let excess egg drain off before coating in breadcrumbs. This helps the breadcrumbs stick better.
- Press the breadcrumbs down onto the chicken for a good coating. A gentle press ensures they adhere properly.
- Heat the oil until it’s hot but not smoking. This helps achieve a golden and crispy crust, cooking the chicken evenly.
Following these tips will help you get that perfect crunch on your Chicken Parmesan! Enjoy the process and savor the delicious outcome.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Parmesan recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes to cook. So, you can enjoy a delicious meal in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure it’s hot enough to cook the chicken perfectly when you’re ready to bake.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This will be the crunchy, flavorful coating for your chicken!
3. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, beat the eggs until they are well mixed. This egg wash will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra egg to drip off. Then, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing it on to ensure it sticks well.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown. This gives them a delightful crispy texture!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the browned chicken pieces to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece, ensuring they are covered. Lastly, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, making it nice and cheesy!
7. Bake Your Chicken:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, and you’ll want to see the cheese bubbling and turning golden on top.
8. Finish and Serve:
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Enjoy your Chicken Parmesan with pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more moisture and flavor to the dish. If you choose to use thighs, just ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best results. Cooking times might be slightly longer, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed cornflakes or panko can be great alternatives. You can also make your own breadcrumbs by toasting slices of bread and then processing them in a food processor. This will give you a fresh, homemade touch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Chicken Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave it until hot, adding a splash of marinara sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. You can also use almond flour mixed with some Italian seasoning if you prefer a low-carb option. The cooking method remains the same!
