Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe You'll Love Tonight

Are you looking for a simple yet delicious dinner idea that will win over your family or impress your dinner guests? Chicken Parmesan, or Chicken Parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish that combines breaded chicken cutlets, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. This easy chicken Parmesan recipe is designed to be straightforward, ensuring a tasty meal in no time. Whether you're new to cooking or consider yourself a seasoned chef, this recipe is foolproof and allows for personal touches to make it your own.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make Chicken Parmesan for four servings:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1.5 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil or olive oil for frying
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
2. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Breading the Chicken

Set up a breading station:

1. Place flour in one shallow dish.
2. In another dish, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt.
3. In a third dish, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a dash of pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess, then in the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Fry the breaded chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Adjust heat if necessary to prevent burning.

🌟 Note: For a healthier alternative, skip frying and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Assembling and Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
3. Place the cooked chicken on top of the sauce.
4. Spoon more sauce over the chicken, then top with mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Parmesan with:

• Spaghetti or angel hair pasta tossed in olive oil or more marinara sauce.
• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or homemade focaccia.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan

• For extra crunch, double bread the chicken. Dip in egg, then breadcrumbs, then repeat.
• To prevent sogginess, pat the chicken dry before breading.
• Use high-quality ingredients, especially the cheese and sauce, for the best flavor.

Chicken Parmesan is a versatile dish that you can easily adapt to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients or substitute with healthier options like whole-grain breadcrumbs or a low-fat cheese. This recipe provides a solid base to showcase your culinary creativity.

Can I make Chicken Parmesan without frying?

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Yes, you can bake the chicken instead of frying. Just follow the breading process, then place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

How do I store leftover Chicken Parmesan?

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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.

Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?

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Yes, Chicken Parmesan freezes well. Once baked, let it cool, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.