There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of crispy, golden chicken parmesan. The combination of tender chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese is a classic that never fails to satisfy.
Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this chicken parmesan recipe is straightforward, delicious, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Let’s dive into how to make this Italian-American favorite from scratch, complete with tips, kitchen tools, and even nutrition facts to keep you informed.
See also: Easy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Recipe
To make this chicken parmesan for 4 servings, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked spaghetti (optional, for serving)
These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both flavorful and filling. Stock up on pantry staples like flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe even easier next time.
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
You don’t need a fancy kitchen to whip up this chicken parmesan, but having the right tools makes the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cutting board – For prepping the chicken.
- Meat mallet – To pound the chicken into even thickness.
- Frying pan or skillet – For frying the chicken.
- Baking dish – To finish the chicken in the oven.
- Tongs – For flipping the chicken safely.
- Mixing bowls – For setting up the breading station.
- Oven – To melt the cheese and finish cooking.
With these tools in hand, you’ll be ready to tackle this recipe like a pro.
See also: 6 Irresistible Air Fryer Chicken Recipes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take your chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Grab three shallow mixing bowls. In the first, add the flour with a pinch of salt and black pepper. In the second, whisk the eggs until smooth. In the third, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast into the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, coat it in the egg mixture, letting any extra drip off. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating. Set the breaded chicken aside on a plate.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them carefully. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, it’ll finish in the oven.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish. Spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over each piece, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve over cooked spaghetti or on its own with a side salad. Enjoy.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan
- Pound the Chicken Evenly: This step is key for uniform cooking and tender results.
- Use Panko: Swap regular breadcrumbs for panko for an extra crispy crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if needed to avoid soggy chicken.
- Make It Healthier: Bake the breaded chicken at 425°F for 20-25 minutes instead of frying, then top with sauce and cheese.
- Boost Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara for a subtle kick.
For those looking to shed a few pounds while enjoying this dish, consider pairing it with a supplement like Moringa Actives, which supports weight loss and metabolism naturally.
See also: Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles Recipe
Nutrition Facts
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings, without spaghetti):
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 48g
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
These values can vary based on portion size and specific brands of ingredients. If you’re watching your calorie intake, supplements like Cappuccino MCT can give your metabolism a boost while keeping you energized.
Why Chicken Parmesan Is a Crowd-Pleaser
Chicken parmesan, or “chicken parm” as it’s affectionately called, has roots in Italian-American cuisine. It’s a dish that combines the best of both worlds: the hearty, comforting flavors of Italy with the bold, cheesy indulgence Americans love.
The crispy breading, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese create a symphony of textures and tastes that appeal to kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s versatile, you can serve it with pasta, a side of veggies, or even in a sandwich.
If you’re aiming to maintain a healthy weight while enjoying meals like this, try incorporating Keto Actives into your routine. It’s designed to support fat reduction and appetite control, perfect for balancing indulgence with wellness.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken parmesan in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag.
Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving works too, but the breading may lose its crispiness.
Customizing Your Chicken Parmesan
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the marinara.
- Veggie Boost: Layer sautéed spinach or mushrooms under the cheese.
- Cheese Swap: Try provolone or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.
For those on a ketogenic diet, NuviaLab Keto is a fantastic supplement to support weight loss and ease into ketosis while enjoying dishes like this.
See also: Air Fryer Eggs Recipe
Pairing Suggestions
Chicken parmesan pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks. Try these:
- Sides: Garlic bread, a green salad with vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables.
- Drinks: A glass of red wine like Chianti, or a refreshing iced tea.
- Dessert: Finish with a light tiramisu or fruit sorbet.
To detox after a hearty meal, consider sipping on Matcha Extreme, a supplement that supports weight control and cleansing.
FAQs
1. Can I Make Chicken Parmesan Ahead of Time?
Yes! Bread and fry the chicken, then cool and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, add the sauce and cheese, and bake as directed.
2. Is Chicken Parmesan Gluten-Free?
Not traditionally, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
3. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work, though they may take slightly longer to cook.
4. How Do I Keep the Breading Crispy?
Fry the chicken just until golden, then finish in the oven. Avoid piling on too much sauce before baking to preserve the crunch.
5. What’s the Difference Between Chicken Parmesan and Chicken Parmigiana?
They’re the same dish! “Parmesan” is the Americanized term, while “Parmigiana” is the Italian name, often tied to its origins with eggplant.
See also: Best Chicken Salad Recipe
Conclusion
This chicken parmesan recipe is a winner for any occasion, easy enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for guests. The crispy breading, savory sauce, and melted cheese come together in a dish that’s pure comfort food bliss.
Plus, with the flexibility to tweak it to your liking and the nutrition facts to keep you informed, it’s a recipe you can feel good about serving.
Want to enjoy this meal while working on your fitness goals? Check out supplements like Fat Burn Active to support your weight loss journey naturally. Give this recipe a try, and let the flavors speak for themselves, your taste buds will thank you.
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