Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that has captivated palates across the globe with its comforting and hearty flavors. This beloved recipe combines tender breaded chicken with tangy marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs—resulting in an irresistible one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknight dinners or impressive weekend feasts.

For this recipe, you will need approximately 30 minutes to prepare the dish and 15 minutes of baking time. It serves four people generously. Here's a detailed guide on how to create Chicken Parmesan in your own kitchen!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 slices of mozzarella cheese (about 8 ounces)
• 1 jar of marinara sauce (16 ounces)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions

To prepare the chicken:

1. Cut each chicken breast horizontally into 2 thinner pieces. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and oregano. Set aside.
3. In another dish, beat the egg in a small bowl. This will be used for dipping the chicken before coating it with the breadcrumb mixture.

To cook:

1. Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten egg, ensuring both sides are well coated. Then press each dipped chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture to evenly coat all sides. Place them on a plate as you prepare the rest of the batch.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken pieces and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) when tested with an instant-read thermometer.
3. Once done, place the skillet in the preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C). Bake for approximately 12 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly heated through and crispy on the outside. Set aside while you prepare the remaining components of the dish.

To assemble:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the shredded mozzarella cheese with some of your favorite marinara sauce. Spoon this mixture over the top of the baked chicken pieces in the skillet. You can also sprinkle any remaining breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
2. Top each piece of Chicken Parmesan with 1 slice of fresh mozzarella cheese and a generous amount of grated Parmesan for flavor and texture. Bake again at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
3. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for about 2 minutes to allow the sauce to set slightly before serving immediately.

Optional Garnishes & Tips

• Garnish ideas: Fresh basil leaves, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add extra color and flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of balsamic glaze also make delightful finishing touches.
• Tips for success: To ensure even cooking and browning, keep the heat consistent throughout the preparation process. The chicken should be crispy on the outside yet juicy inside, so maintaining proper oven temperature is key.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Parmesan can be served hot with a side of pasta or rice for a complete meal. You could also pair it with a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the dish. For an extra touch, consider adding a glass of red wine on the side to complement the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Storing: Any leftover Chicken Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container inside your refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before covering and refrigerating.

Reheating: For reheating, you can place the dish back into an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved on high power in a microwave-safe dish for around 4-6 minutes.

Chicken Parmesan offers more than just delicious food; it’s a symbol of comfort and family tradition. Whether you're serving this dish to your loved ones or hosting friends over for dinner, everyone will appreciate the effort that goes into creating such a satisfying meal.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Parmesan and may all your dining experiences be as delightful as this recipe promises!