I have always been a fan of chicken parmesan. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make at home. This Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe is a game-changer for your weeknight dinners. Imagine crispy chicken covered in tasty marinara sauce and bubbling melted cheese. Yum! Whether you’re making it for yourself or hosting friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Before starting, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s a list of what you will need to make this delicious dish.
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Getting the chicken ready is the first step. This recipe involves a simple breading process that results in crispy chicken.
Pound the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to about half an inch thick. This step helps the chicken cook evenly.
Set Up a Breading Station
In three separate shallow dishes, set up your breading station:
- The first dish has flour.
- The second dish contains beaten eggs.
- In the third dish, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Breading the Chicken
Take one chicken breast and dip it in the flour, making sure to coat both sides. Shake off the excess flour, then dip it into the egg, covering it completely. Finally, transfer the chicken to the breadcrumb mixture and press down gently to ensure it adheres well. Repeat for the remaining chicken breasts.
Cooking the Chicken
In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot, but not smoking. You can check it by dropping a breadcrumb in; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the breaded chicken into the skillet. Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you want them to cook properly. Once done, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Adding the Sauce and Cheese
Now for the best part – topped with marinara and cheese!
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Assemble the Chicken
In a baking dish, pour about 1 cup of marinara sauce. Place the fried chicken on top of the sauce. Then, pour the remaining marinara over the chicken breasts. Finish by sprinkling shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Baking the Chicken Parmesan
Now that everything is assembled, it’s time to bake your creation.
Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for around 20 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this dish alongside a simple side salad or spaghetti. Garlic bread also makes a perfect companion! Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery to soak up the sauce.
- Spaghetti: A classic pairing that complements the chicken.
- Side Salad: Fresh and crunchy for a balance.
Garnishing the Dish
Sprinkle some extra fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, on top for a pop of color. It not only adds flavor but also makes the dish look beautiful!
Storage Tips for Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which I doubt!), here’s how to store them.
Refrigerate
Store any leftover chicken parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze for Later
You can also freeze it! Wrap individual servings in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you’ll have a tasty meal ready for busy days.
FAQs About Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the frying and baking steps.
What Can I Substitute for Marinara Sauce?
Feel free to substitute marinara with any tomato sauce or even pesto for a unique twist. A homemade sauce can add an extra personal touch!
Is There a Healthier Way to Cook This?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can bake the breaded chicken instead of frying it. Spray with a little oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes.
Enjoy Your Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe
This Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe is one of those comforting meals that everyone loves. It showcases the delightful combination of flavors and textures that makes chicken parmesan so special. I hope you enjoy making and eating this dish as much as I do.