Chicken Parmesan, often called “Chicken Parm,” is a beloved Italian-American dish that features crispy breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this easy Chicken Parmesan recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe
This easy Chicken Parmesan is:
- Crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Finished with delicious marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella.
- Prepared in less than an hour, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence.
- Crafted from easy-to-find ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style recommended)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
For the sauce and topping:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How to Make Chicken Parmesan
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the chicken breasts: Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound them to about ½ inch thickness. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
- Season the chicken: Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
- Set up the dredging station: Prepare three shallow bowls. Place flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese in the third.
- Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 3: Crisp the Chicken
Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Fry the chicken: Cook each breaded chicken breast for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Then, place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Step 4: Layer the Chicken and Sauce
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Layer the sauce and chicken: Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into a baking dish. Place the fried chicken on top, then drizzle the remaining sauce over each piece.
Add the toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the chicken.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the dish: Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden finish, broil for 2-3 minutes.
Add a garnish and serve: Top with fresh basil or parsley and enjoy while hot!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Pasta: Serve over spaghetti, penne, or any pasta of your choice with extra marinara sauce.
- Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or a simple green salad complements this dish perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the marinara sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Try serving with steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: It adds more flavor and texture compared to pre-packaged cheese.
- Pound the chicken breasts uniformly: This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender.
- Don’t skip the frying step: Frying the chicken creates a crispy crust that makes this dish so delicious.
- Select a premium marinara sauce: A quality marinara boosts the overall taste of your Chicken Parmesan.
- Broil for a crispy, golden finish: If you like the cheese on top golden and bubbly, broil for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs About Chicken Parmesan
Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes! You can fry the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble and bake just before serving for best results.
Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?
Absolutely. You can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake when ready.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier version, though the cook time may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
The Chicken Parmesan is a comforting, classic dish that everyone loves. Its combination of crispy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese makes it a favorite in many households. Whether you’re making it for a special family dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this Chicken Parmesan recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen.
Be sure to share your version with us at RecipesHom! Tag us on social media and let us know how your Chicken Parmesan turned out.
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