Chicken Breast Parmesan
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A delicious and crispy chicken breast topped with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions.
This Chicken Breast Parmesan is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Italian dish at home. Juicy chicken breasts are coated in crispy breadcrumbs, topped with marinara sauce, and finished with gooey melted cheese.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy coating that provides the perfect crunch
- Savory marinara sauce complements the chicken beautifully
- Easy to make yet impressive enough for guests
Perfect for Any Occasion
Chicken Breast Parmesan is a versatile dish that fits seamlessly into any meal plan. Whether you're cooking for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe impresses with its beautiful presentation and delightful flavors. The golden, crispy chicken topped with bubbling cheese and rich marinara will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight yet elegant enough for special gatherings.
This dish brings together the comforting elements of Italian cuisine, making it a favorite among many. The combination of textures—from the crispy coating to the gooey melted cheese—produces a satisfying bite that is hard to resist. Serve it with pasta or a fresh salad, and you have a complete meal that can please even the pickiest eaters.
Cooking Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect crispy coating, make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning. This allows the coating to adhere better and results in a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken. Additionally, when breading, shake off any excess flour and egg to prevent clumping, which can interfere with that sought-after crispiness.
Using freshly grated parmesan cheese in the breadcrumb mixture enhances the flavor significantly. If you have time, consider making your own breadcrumbs from stale bread for added texture and flavor. This small change can elevate your Chicken Breast Parmesan to a whole new level, impressing your family and guests alike.
Pairing Suggestions
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For the Topping
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking!
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking. Season with salt and pepper.
Bread the Chicken
Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Coat each chicken breast in flour, dip in egg, and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with some oil. Fry the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a baking dish.
Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour marinara sauce over the chicken breasts and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
Serve
Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve with pasta or a side salad.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Breast Parmesan!
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, Chicken Breast Parmesan stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at a low temperature to ensure the chicken remains juicy and the cheese melts beautifully.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. For a healthier twist, you can bake the breaded chicken instead of frying it. Simply place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through and crispy.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese for the topping. While mozzarella is traditional, adding a mix of provolone or fontina can add a unique flavor. Additionally, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the marinara sauce for an extra burst of nutrients and flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well and will be juicier.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze Chicken Breast Parmesan?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to serve.
Chicken Breast Parmesan
A delicious and crispy chicken breast topped with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions.
Created by: Diana Brooks
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For the Topping
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking. Season with salt and pepper.
Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Coat each chicken breast in flour, dip in egg, and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with some oil. Fry the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a baking dish.
Pour marinara sauce over the chicken breasts and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve with pasta or a side salad.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 40g