Indulge in a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with savory marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This easy chicken parmesan is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, bringing an Italian classic to your table effortlessly.
Why This?
This easy chicken parmesan recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a beloved Italian-American classic without the hassle of frying. Baking the chicken instead of frying keeps it lighter, while still delivering that satisfying crunch. The combination of breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also allows for flexibility in ingredients and sides. Whether served with pasta, a fresh salad, or crusty bread, this dish guarantees to please. The simplicity of the preparation makes it an ideal choice for novice cooks and experienced chefs alike. Gather your ingredients and experience the joy of making this delicious meal from scratch, sure to impress family and friends.
Hardware
To create this dish, you will need some essential kitchen equipment.
- A baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup
- A shallow dish for breading the chicken
- A meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness
- A large skillet for heating the marinara sauce
- A thermometer to ensure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature. Having these tools ready will streamline your cooking process and enhance your culinary experience.
Little Things That Make a Big Difference
When preparing easy chicken parmesan, remember to handle raw chicken with care to prevent cross-contamination. Always wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces that have come into contact with the raw chicken. Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat. For the breading, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and season the breadcrumbs for an extra flavor boost. Let the chicken rest after baking for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy. If you want a crispier texture, broil the chicken for a few minutes after baking. Also, consider adding fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Recipe Card
Ingredients
- two chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- one cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- half cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- one teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- one cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- one cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- to taste salt (for seasoning)
- to taste pepper (for seasoning)
- two tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about half an inch, for uniform cooking. Cook chicken to internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to adhere the crumbs. Cook chicken to internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Cook chicken to internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove from oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Cook chicken to internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Cook chicken to internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Your Way
This easy chicken parmesan recipe can be customized to suit your taste. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat breadcrumbs or bake the chicken without breading for a lighter option. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or provolone, for varied flavors. For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the marinara sauce. Vegetarians can swap the chicken for eggplant or zucchini slices for a delicious meatless version. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this dish your own.
Table Ready
For a delightful presentation, serve the easy chicken parmesan hot from the oven, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Pair it with a side of spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic or a crisp Caesar salad. Crusty garlic bread complements the meal perfectly, allowing you to soak up the delicious marinara sauce. This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Rescuing Recipe Fails
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| The chicken is dry and overcooked. | Ensure you pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before baking to promote even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at the thickest part of the breast and remove it from the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F. |
| The breading is soggy. | Allow the chicken to cool slightly before serving, and ensure the marinara sauce is not too watery. You can also bake the chicken on a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow air circulation around it. |
| Cheese is not melting properly. | Ensure you are using fresh cheese and place it under the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking to achieve a bubbly, golden finish. |
| The flavors are bland. | Season the breadcrumbs and the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs before breading to enhance the overall flavor. |
Everything You Want to Know
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It's best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, but if using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and pounded before proceeding.
What can I serve with easy chicken parmesan?
It pairs well with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the breaded chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with breaded eggplant or zucchini for a vegetarian option.
