Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a classic Italian dish that combines crispy breaded chicken cutlets with tangy tomato sauce and melted cheese. This blog post will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make the best chicken Parmesan. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned cook, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delicious and satisfying meal for the whole family. So, let’s dive into the world of chicken Parmesan and discover why it has become a beloved favorite in Italian cuisine.
Ingredients for Parmesan Chicken
- Chicken cutlets: Thin pieces of chicken that cook quickly and evenly for this chicken parm recipe. This is the best way to get the chicken breast even.
- Parmesan cheese: Adding a rich and nutty flavor to the breadcrumb mixture enhances the cheese topping.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top of the chicken, creating a gooey and cheesy layer.
- Fresh basil: Adds a fragrant and herbal note to the dish.
- Olive oil: Used for cooking the breaded chicken to a golden brown.
- Italian seasoning- blend of spices and herbs that adds a classic Italian flavor to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavors in the dish.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Provide a crispy and crunchy texture to the chicken coating.
- Eggs: Helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken.
- Pasta sauce: A tangy and flavorful tomato sauce that serves as the base for the dish.
- Salt and black pepper: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
How To Make Parmesan Chicken
Preparing Chicken–The first thing I do is make sure I take my chicken breast out before I get my day started. This ensures that my chicken is properly thawed and ready to be seasoned when I get home from a busy day.
Seasoning- Season chicken with pepper and salt.
Making Chicken Breading– Gather all your ingredients: flour, Italian breadcrumbs, seasoning, and eggs. This way once I get the grease ready, I can have the perfect fried chicken.
1.Season chicken with pepper and salt. Place chicken breast into flour
2.Then place your regular chicken breasts eggs (make sure to mix eggs)
3.Then place chicken into Italian breadcrumbs
4. Frying Chicken at 350 Degrees F. Use a oil thermometer if this is your first time. Only place a small amount of oil in pan.
Now that you have your chicken breaded place in hot grease for 3- 4 minutes on each side. Don’t fry for too long because you will be placing in the oven for 15-20 minutes later
5. Marinara Sauce Place 1 jar of store bought marinara sauce in pot along with parsley leaves, mozzarella cheese, sugar in pot and stir. Let cook for 5 minutes or until boiling.
6.Then place sauce on top. Not too much. Add parmesan cheese on top
7. Place in the oven for 15-20 minutes. You will want dessert after this meal. Try my quick and easy cheesecake!
Variations
– Eggplant Parmesan: Substitute chicken cutlets with thin slices of eggplant for a vegetarian twist on this classic dish.
– Zucchini Parmesan: Replace the chicken with sliced zucchini and follow the same breading and baking process for a lighter and healthier option.
– Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Coat the chicken in a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra crispy crust.
– Chicken Parmesan Sub: Serve the breaded chicken on a hoagie roll with melted mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce for a delicious sandwich variation.
Substitutions
– Store-Bought Sauce: If you’re short on time, you can use your favorite store-bought pasta sauce instead of making homemade marinara sauce.
– Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Equipment You Will Need
– Baking sheet: To place the breaded chicken for baking.
– Meat mallet or rolling pin: To pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
– Shallow dish or pie plate: For the breadcrumb mixture and egg wash.
– Large skillet: To cook the breaded chicken to a golden brown.
– Sheet pan: To transfer the cooked chicken for baking with the sauce and cheese.
– Meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature.
Storage
– Leftover chicken Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
– To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
In Conclusion
This dump and bake chicken parmesan is a timeless dish that never fails to impress. With its crispy coating, flavorful tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy date night at home. By following this easy recipe, you’ll be able to create a restaurant-quality that will have your whole family asking for seconds.So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a taste of Italy with this classic recipe that has stood the test of time.
Questions
What pasta to serve with chicken parmesan?
Spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, or farfalle (bowtie pasta).
What wine pairs with chicken parmesan
Chianti, Sangiovese, Merlot, Pinot Noir, or a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay typically pair well with chicken parmesan.
Can you make chicken parmesan with thighs
Yes, you can definitely make chicken parmesan with chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. The process and ingredients remain largely the same. Simply coat the chicken thighs in breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, pan-fry them until golden and crispy, top with marinara sauce and cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s a delicious alternative to the traditional chicken parmesan made with chicken breasts.
What to serve with chicken parmesan
Some popular options to serve with chicken parmesan include pasta, garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, Italian pasta salad, asparagus, mashed potatoes, and Caprese salad.
Easy quick crusted chicken parmesan recipe
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken breast
- 1 Cup All purpose flour
- 1 Sliced mozzarella cheese
- 1 Jar Marinara sauce Store Purchased
- 1 Tbsp Parsley Flakes
- 4 Large eggs
- 1 Tsp Sea Salt
- 1 Tbsp Pepper
- 1 Tsp Sugar For Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 Cup Italian bread crumbs
- 1 1/2 Cup Olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F
- Place chicken onto a plate4 Chicken breast
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder1 Tsp Sea Salt, 1 Tbsp Pepper, 1 Tbsp Garlic Powder
- Grab 3 separate bowlsOne bowl with flourOne bowl with eggsOne bowl with Italian breadcrumbs4 Large eggs, 1 Cup Italian bread crumbs, 1 Cup All purpose flour
- Place chicken breast into the flour(front and back)Next, place the chicken breast into the eggs(front and back)Lastly, place the chicken in the Italian bread crumbs(front and back)
- Turn stove to medium and add Olive oil1 1/2 Cup Olive oil
- Place chicken into olive oil (cook on each side for 3-4 minutes) then take out and place onto a baking tray
- In a bowl add your marinara sauce along with sugar and stir1 Tsp Sugar, 1 Jar Marinara sauce
- Place the sauce on top of chicken
- Sprinkle dried parsley1 Tbsp Parsley Flakes
- Add Mozzarella cheese1 Sliced mozzarella cheese
- Place a piece of aluminum foil over the top of the baking tray
- Place in the oven to bake for 15-20 minutes or until done
- Enjoy
Looks delicious and I will have to give this recipe a try. I also love the story behind the recipe!
You definitely should!! Let me know how it turns out. Make sure to check back weekly for more quick recipes
This looks so yummy! We love pasta dishes.
They are the best!
Woow it looks good!!! Might nave to try it!
You definitely should give it a try!
This looks amazing! Definitely adding to my list of recipes to try!
Thanks….let me know how it goes
This looks delicious going to have to give this a try but make it gluten free. Thanks for the inspiration.
Thank you for visiting my blog
I have to try this. It is crazy to say I never made this before, but I love to eat it.
You should try it. It’s so good. Let me know if you do!
Wow love your love story! And the chicken parm looks delicious. Saving this recipe. Thanks for sharing!
You are more than welcome. Please continue to check back for more quick and easy recipes