Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that combines crispy, breaded chicken with tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. It’s simple to prepare and will have everyone asking for seconds. The crispy exterior and tender chicken inside, topped with rich tomato sauce and gooey cheese, make this dish a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. In another dish, beat the eggs until well combined.
5. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
6. Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
7. Remove the chicken from the oven and top each breast with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Chicken Parmesan with a twist: Add a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms between the chicken and sauce for a delicious variation.
• Gluten-free: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that the marinara sauce is also gluten-free.
• Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a little heat.
• Parmesan chicken: Skip the mozzarella cheese for a lighter, yet still delicious, version of Chicken Parmesan, using only Parmesan.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is warmed through and the cheese is melted again.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
   Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option, though the cooking time may vary slightly.
2. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   The chicken should have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also cut into the thickest part to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the chicken and breadcrumbs the day before. Store them in the fridge and bake the next day for a quick and easy dinner.
4. Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?
   Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken breasts before baking. After baking, it’s best to eat immediately, but you can also freeze leftovers. Be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
5. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
   Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works well in this recipe. For the best flavor, opt for a high-quality sauce or one with no added sugar.
6. How can I make this more flavorful?
   Add extra seasonings to the breadcrumb mixture, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried oregano for an extra punch of flavor.
7. Can I make this without Parmesan cheese?
   You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with another hard cheese, like Pecorino Romano, or skip it entirely if you prefer.
8. Can I add other toppings to the chicken?
   Absolutely! You can top the chicken with additional herbs like oregano or thyme or even sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella for extra flavor.
9. What should I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
   Chicken Parmesan pairs beautifully with pasta, a fresh salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
10. Can I make this dish in a skillet instead of baking?
    Yes, you can pan-fry the breaded chicken breasts in a little olive oil until golden brown, then top with sauce and cheese and finish cooking in the skillet with a lid on to melt the cheese.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan is a satisfying and flavorful dish that combines the best of crispy chicken, savory marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s a crowd favorite that can easily be made in under an hour, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether served with pasta or enjoyed on its own, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

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