Chicken Parmesan is a tasty dish where juicy chicken breasts are coated in crunchy breadcrumbs, topped with melted cheese, and smothered in rich marinara sauce. It’s simple yet oh-so-delicious!
If you love gooey cheese and crispy chicken, this meal is for you! I always crave it when I want something comforting, and it pairs perfectly with pasta. Yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: The star of the show! I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken thighs add extra juiciness. For a healthier option, consider thin-sliced turkey cutlets.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs give great flavor and crunch. If you can’t find them, try using plain breadcrumbs and mix in Italian herbs, or even panko for a super crunchy coat!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara is a time-saver, but making your own can be really rewarding! If you’re short on time, any tomato sauce can work too. Just spice it up with garlic and herbs.
Cheese: If you’re out of Parmesan, grated Romano or even nutritional yeast (for a vegan option!) can do the trick. I also like mixing different cheeses for depth of flavor—sometimes adding a touch of provolone!
How Do You Achieve Crispy and Flavorful Chicken?
Getting that perfect crispy outside is all about the breading technique. Make sure you set up an efficient assembly line with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. This helps in coating evenly.
- Start with a good pat down of the chicken. The dryer the surface, the better the coating will stick.
- Fry the chicken in hot oil for a brief time to ensure it cooks through. This locks in moisture!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan as it lowers the oil temperature and can lead to soggy chicken.
With these tips, your Chicken Parmesan will turn out delicious every time! Enjoy!
Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 cup olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Chicken Parmesan takes about 30 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to bake, totaling around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delightful dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is ready when you need it later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and slice each one horizontally to create two thin cutlets. Alternatively, you can gently pound the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap until they’re about 1/2-inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper generously.
3. Set Up the Breading Station:
Grab three shallow dishes. In the first dish, add the flour. In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and water until well combined. In the last dish, mix the breadcrumbs with half of the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. This will create your coating.
4. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken cutlet and coat it thoroughly in flour, shaking off any extra. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mix to coat it evenly. Set aside on a plate or tray.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken cutlets, frying them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer them to paper towels to drain off any extra oil.
6. Prepare for Baking:
In a baking dish or oven-safe skillet, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken cutlets on top of the sauce.
7. Add More Sauce and Cheese:
Spoon additional marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, ensuring they are well covered. Now sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
8. Bake:
Put the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes. You’re waiting for the cheese to melt and become bubbly, making it look irresistible!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take the Chicken Parmesan out of the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for that lovely touch! Serve hot with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy, cheesy Chicken Parmesan! It’s a meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Can I Use Skin-On Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Skin-on chicken breasts will enhance the flavor, but keep in mind that they may require slightly more cooking time. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You may want to remove the skin before breading if you prefer a lighter dish.
What Can I Substitute for Italian-Style Breadcrumbs?
If you can’t find Italian-style breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs work fine! To add flavor, mix in some dried herbs like basil, oregano, and garlic powder. For an extra crunch, you can also use panko breadcrumbs.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through, or gently in the microwave, though this may soften the crust a bit.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bread the chicken and fry it ahead of time. Simply let the cooked cutlets cool, then store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, layer them with sauce and cheese and bake as directed!
