Chicken Parmesan is a beloved classic in Italian-American cuisine, known for its comforting blend of crispy, juicy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese. This Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe offers a simplified approach, making it a perfect weeknight meal that doesn't skimp on flavor. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is accessible and sure to become a favorite in your household.
What You Need:
The beauty of Chicken Parmesan lies in its simplicity. Here's what you'll need:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, ideally pounded to about ¼ inch thickness for even cooking.
- Egg Mixture: For breading, you'll need 2 large eggs, beaten, with a splash of water or milk for a smoother coating.
- Breading: Use a mixture of breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crunch) with Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Optionally, mix in some grated Parmesan for an added cheesy kick.
- Sauce: Use a good quality store-bought marinara or make your own with tomatoes, garlic, basil, and oregano.
- Cheese: Fresh mozzarella for its melt and stretch, and freshly grated Parmesan.
- Oil: Olive oil for shallow frying, as it imparts flavor. You can also use half olive oil and half vegetable oil for better frying results.
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves for garnish and added freshness.
- Pasta: Although not part of the core recipe, serving your Chicken Parmesan with pasta enhances the meal.
🍽️ Note: For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) instead of frying. Just lightly spray the breaded chicken with cooking oil and bake until crispy and golden.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting your own Chicken Parmesan:
- Prep the Chicken: If your chicken breasts are thick, cut them into cutlets or butterfly them, then pound them to a uniform thickness.
- Season and Bread: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, then dip in the egg wash, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chicken cutlets until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel to drain.
- Assemble: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the fried cutlets in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet, then top with mozzarella slices and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Bake: Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes. If the cheese isn't golden, broil briefly but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve with pasta or a simple salad for a complete meal.
🔍 Note: If you're making your own marinara, consider cooking it simultaneously with the chicken frying to save time. The flavors will develop nicely as the sauce simmers.
Tips for Perfection:
- Thin is In: Make sure your chicken is thin for even cooking; this also ensures you get the perfect crunch without overcooking the inside.
- Resting the Breaded Chicken: Let the breaded cutlets rest for 5 minutes before frying. This helps the breading adhere better during the frying process.
- Keep the Cheese Melty: To prevent the cheese from burning or becoming too brown, you can cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil during the first half of baking.
- Herb Variation: Don't shy away from adding other herbs like oregano, parsley, or even a touch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
⚠️ Note: Always use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, ensuring it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
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Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They are more forgiving in terms of cooking time due to higher fat content, but they should still be flattened for even cooking and to ensure the breading adheres well.
What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
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Chicken Parmesan is traditionally served with pasta like spaghetti or linguine. Alternatively, consider garlic bread, a Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables to complement the rich flavors.
How do I make the Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
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You can bread the chicken cutlets and freeze them before frying. When ready to cook, fry them directly from the freezer, just adjusting the cooking time. Assemble and bake when needed.
