Chicken Parmesan is a tasty dish that features juicy chicken breast, crispy breading, and a rich tomato sauce topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s like a hug on a plate!
Making this dish is super fun! I love smothering that cheesy goodness all over the chicken. Serve it with pasta or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a winner for dinner! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. They’re tender and cook evenly. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use turkey cutlets instead.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs bring great flavor. If you don’t have them, you can make your own by mixing plain breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning or use panko for extra crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a good-quality grated cheese blend.
Sauce: While marinara sauce is common, you could try Alfredo for a unique twist or a homemade sauce for freshness.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Crispy and Flavorful?
Getting that crispy coating is key! You need to follow a few simple steps:
- Dredging: Make sure you coat the chicken in flour first. This helps the egg to stick better, which in turn allows the breadcrumbs to adhere properly.
- Frying: Don’t rush this step. Fry in medium-high heat oil, allowing the crust to form a golden brown layer—about 3-4 minutes per side. Fry in batches to avoid crowding, which lowers the oil temperature.
- Pressing: When coating the chicken with breadcrumbs, press them down firmly. This ensures the coating stays on while frying and baking.
Following these tips will guarantee you a Chicken Parmesan that’s extra crispy and delicious! Enjoy cooking!
Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally (to make 4 pieces)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For Cooking:
- 1/2 cup olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
For Topping:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Parmesan recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time. You’ll have a delightful meal ready to serve in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your cheesy Chicken Parmesan.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken cutlets and season both sides with salt and pepper. This adds extra flavor to the chicken!
3. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Get three shallow dishes ready for breading: Place flour in the first dish, beat the eggs with a tablespoon of water in the second, and mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, oregano, and garlic powder in the third.
4. Dredge the Chicken:
First, take a chicken piece and coat it in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it in the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to make sure it sticks well.
5. Fry the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the breaded chicken cutlets for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. You might need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Once the chicken is nicely browned, move the cutlets to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece of chicken.
7. Add Cheese:
Top each saucy chicken piece with an even sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese—get ready for that melty goodness!
8. Bake in the Oven:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once your Chicken Parmesan is out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh sliced basil for a burst of flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy it with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad on the side.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy, and cheesy Chicken Parmesan! 🍽️
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts! They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can use Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation or even a homemade tomato sauce. Just make sure it’s seasoned well for the best flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes or until warmed through to keep the chicken crispy.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the flour is also gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy Chicken Parmesan while catering to gluten sensitivities.
