Craving a comforting Italian classic? This chicken parmesan recipe is sure to satisfy! Juicy chicken breasts are breaded, fried to perfection, and then smothered in marinara sauce and melted cheese. Serve it over pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal that your family will love. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Pasta or salad for serving (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 piece of chicken) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. This is based on a standard recipe without additional sides.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a bowl, beat the egg and set aside.
- In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each chicken breast in the egg, allowing excess to drip off.
- Coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Place fried chicken in a baking dish, top with marinara sauce, and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option. Additionally, turkey or eggplant can be substituted for chicken for a different take on this classic dish.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken parmesan is traditionally served over spaghetti or with a side of garlic bread. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers 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. While freezing is possible, it may alter the texture of the chicken and sauce.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not flattening the chicken for even cooking.
- Using too much oil, which can make the chicken greasy.
- Overcooking the chicken, resulting in dryness.
- Skipping the seasoning, which enhances flavor.
- Not letting the chicken rest before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Let the chicken sit after frying to maintain crispiness.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
- Serve with homemade marinara for an extra touch.
FAQs
Can I make chicken parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and assemble it just before baking. This makes it easy for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I substitute for marinara sauce?
You can use alfredo sauce or pesto as alternatives, depending on your flavor preference.
Is chicken parmesan gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your marinara sauce is free from gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Absolutely! Baking the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes can create a healthier version.
How can I make my chicken parmesan extra crispy?
Double breading the chicken by dipping it in egg and breadcrumbs twice can enhance the crispiness.
Conclusion
This chicken parmesan recipe is not only simple to make but also delivers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy chicken, savory marinara, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delicious dish!
Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the chicken until golden brown.
- Place the fried chicken in a baking dish, top with marinara sauce, and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
