5 Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipes You'll Love

Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Chicken Parmesan, known for its crispy exterior and tender interior, makes for a satisfying meal that's a delight to cook and eat. Let's start with a classic rendition of this beloved dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup of Italian breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it.
2. Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. You can use a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan.
3. In one bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. In another, whisk the eggs with a bit of water.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes each side.
6. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, then sprinkle with mozzarella.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

⚠️ Note: Always ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Chicken Parmesan Casserole

For a twist on the classic, here's a casserole version that's perfect for feeding a crowd or for leftovers.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 cups of marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked pasta (optional)

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix breadcrumbs with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the chicken cubes in the breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
4. In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce. Add the chicken in an even layer, then top with remaining sauce.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil, sprinkle with cheeses, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. If desired, mix in cooked pasta before serving to make it a one-dish meal.

💡 Note: The casserole version is excellent for freezing. Cool it down and freeze it in portions for later use.

Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

Elevate your sandwich game with this delightful take on Chicken Parmesan.

Ingredients:

• Chicken Parmesan (prepared as above), cut into strips
• 4 sandwich rolls or crusty Italian bread
• Marinara sauce
• Mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Basil leaves
• Garlic powder for extra flavor

Steps:

1. Toast the rolls slightly.
2. Brush the insides of the rolls with a little olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
3. Place strips of chicken Parmesan on the bottom half of the roll.
4. Add marinara sauce on top of the chicken and lay slices of mozzarella over it.
5. Place sandwiches in a preheated oven (broil or bake at 350°F) until cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add fresh basil leaves and close the sandwich with the top half of the roll.

🍴 Note: Serve this sandwich warm with a side of extra marinara for dipping if desired.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Parmesan

Add a zesty twist to your Chicken Parmesan with this lemon garlic variation.

Ingredients:

• All ingredients from the classic recipe
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced

Steps:

1. Follow the classic Chicken Parmesan recipe but add minced garlic and lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture.
2. After breading the chicken, squeeze lemon juice over the top before baking.
3. Proceed with the baking as instructed in the classic recipe.

🔥 Note: The acidity from the lemon and the punch of garlic can really brighten up the flavors.

Vegan Chicken Parmesan

For our plant-based friends, here's a vegan version of the classic Chicken Parmesan.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and sliced
• 1 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs (ensure no animal products)
• 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes)
• Vegan mozzarella or cashew cheese
• Marinara sauce
• Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
• Plant-based milk for dredging

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix breadcrumbs with nutritional yeast, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each tofu slice in plant-based milk, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Fry in a little oil until crispy or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes on each side.
5. Arrange the tofu in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and top with vegan cheese.
6. Bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted.

🌱 Note: Pressing the tofu is crucial to get rid of excess moisture, ensuring it absorbs the flavors well.

As you can see, Chicken Parmesan is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. From the classic recipe to a vegan version, there's something here for everyone. Each variation brings out unique flavors while maintaining the essence of this beloved comfort food. Whether you're hosting a dinner, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or trying to impress your friends, these recipes can be tailored to make your culinary experience rich and satisfying. Enjoy cooking these delicious Chicken Parmesan recipes, and don't forget to share the love with your family and friends!

Can I prepare Chicken Parmesan in advance?

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Yes, you can bread and fry the chicken in advance. Simply assemble the dish without the cheese, refrigerate or freeze, and add cheese before baking when ready to serve.

What side dishes go well with Chicken Parmesan?

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Traditional sides include pasta with marinara sauce, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. But you can also serve it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

How do I know if the chicken is cooked?

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Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken; if it’s no longer pink and the juices run clear, it’s done.

Can I use other meats or substitutes for Chicken Parmesan?

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Absolutely! You can use eggplant, turkey cutlets, or even mushrooms for a different twist on the classic recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is there a quick way to flatten chicken breasts?

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To quickly flatten chicken breasts, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable bag and gently pound with a rolling pin or meat mallet until they are of even thickness.