Indulge in this classic Chicken Parmesan recipe that brings together crispy, golden-brown chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its delightful flavors and comforting textures. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This Chicken Parmesan recipe serves 4 people. The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and the cooking time is about 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 piece of chicken) contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 850mg
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, beat the egg. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes each.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Top each piece with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with turkey cutlets for a leaner option. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Additionally, try different cheeses like provolone or gouda for varied flavors.
Serving and Pairings
Serve Chicken Parmesan with a side of spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. A glass of red wine complements this dish beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the marinara sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen; however, it’s best to freeze before baking.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not pounding the chicken evenly can lead to uneven cooking.
- Skipping the seasoning step will result in bland chicken.
- Overcrowding the skillet may cause steaming instead of frying.
- Using too much oil can make the chicken greasy.
- Not allowing the cheese to melt properly will affect the texture.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Add herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Parmesan in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.
What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
This dish pairs well with pasta, salad, or garlic bread. Choose sides that complement the rich flavors.
Is Chicken Parmesan healthy?
While it is delicious, Chicken Parmesan can be high in calories. Consider using baked chicken and less cheese for a healthier version.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought marinara sauce saves time and can be just as tasty as homemade.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to preserve the texture.
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, rich sauce, and melted cheese, making it a family favorite. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, you’ll want to make this recipe part of your regular meal rotation.
Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, beat the egg. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes each.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Top each piece with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
