Chicken Parmesan

why make this recipe

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that is loved for its delicious flavors and comforting vibe. It combines tender chicken cutlets with a crispy coating, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Making Chicken Parmesan at home lets you control the ingredients and make it just the way you like it. It’s perfect for a family dinner, casual gatherings, or impressing your friends. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy!

how to make Chicken Parmesan

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts (large, about 1 1/2 lbs)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or GF flour)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs (beaten until frothy)
• 1/2 cup Italian bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (shredded or grated)
• 2 Tbsp light olive oil (to sauté)
• 3 cups marinara sauce (divided)
• 4 oz mozzarella cheese (1 cup shredded)
• 1 Tbsp fresh basil (or parsley, chopped for optional garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Trim chicken breasts and slice in half lengthwise so you end up with 4 equal-thickness cutlets. Pound larger chicken breasts to 1/3-inch thick. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Set up dredging station: In the first shallow bowl, stir together 1/2 cup flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. In a second bowl, whisk 2 eggs until frothy. In a third bowl, stir together 1/2 cup Italian bread crumbs with 1/2 cup parmesan cheese.

3. Dredge the chicken: Dip both sides of each chicken cutlet into the flour, tapping off the excess. Then dip in beaten eggs, letting excess egg drip off. Finally, dip into the cheesy breadcrumbs, pressing cutlets into breading to ensure a thick coating. Let the breading sit for 5 minutes.

4. Pan-fry: Heat a large non-stick pan over medium heat and add enough olive oil to lightly coat the bottom. Once the oil is hot, add chicken in batches (don’t crowd the pan) — the chicken should sizzle. Sauté 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown — it doesn’t have to be fully cooked at this time.

5. Assemble and bake: Pour half of the marinara into a 9×13 casserole baking dish. Arrange chicken over the sauce in a single layer. Top each piece with remaining marinara and cover with shredded mozzarella. Bake uncovered at 425˚F for 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165˚F on an instant-read thermometer, the cheese is melted, and the sauce is bubbling. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired.

how to serve Chicken Parmesan

Serve Chicken Parmesan hot out of the oven with a side of pasta, a simple salad, or garlic bread. It makes a hearty meal that everyone will love. You can also sprinkle extra parmesan cheese or fresh herbs on top for added flavor.

how to store Chicken Parmesan

If you have leftovers, let Chicken Parmesan cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

tips to make Chicken Parmesan

• For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in breadcrumbs.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165˚F.
• Feel free to use other cheeses like provolone or fontina for a different flavor.

variation

You can easily make a healthier version by baking the chicken instead of frying it. Simply place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400˚F for about 20-25 minutes before adding the sauce and cheese.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and assemble it just before baking.

3. What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
It goes well with spaghetti, salad, or garlic bread. Any of these will complement the dish nicely.

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