Classic Chicken Parmesan

Why Make This Recipe

Classic Chicken Parmesan is a beloved dish that combines crispy, breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a comfortable weekend meal. It’s easy to make and is sure to please both adults and kids alike. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can bring a taste of Italy to your dining table!

How to Make Classic Chicken Parmesan

Ingredients:

• 3 chicken breasts, sliced in half length-wise
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 eggs, whisked
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 2 tsp Italian herb blend (thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 6 slices Mozzarella
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Tenderize the chicken by pounding it to about 1/2 inch thickness. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, Italian herb blend, and garlic powder. Set up your assembly line with flour, whisked eggs, and the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Coat each piece of chicken first in flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally cover it with the breadcrumbs.
4. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Brown the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s golden.
5. Arrange the browned chicken in a baking dish. Layer each piece with sliced mozzarella and pour marinara sauce on top. Bake in the oven for about 14 minutes. Then, sprinkle with shredded parmesan and broil for 1 minute to brown the cheese.
6. For a baked method, preheat the oven to 450°F and follow the same steps without frying the chicken. Use an oiled pan and bake for 25 minutes before adding the cheese and sauce.
7. Serve your Chicken Parmesan topped with fresh basil for added flavor.

How to Serve Classic Chicken Parmesan

Classic Chicken Parmesan is best served hot. You can pair it with pasta, a side salad, or some garlic bread to make a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra basil or a dash of red pepper flakes can add a nice touch to the presentation.

How to Store Classic Chicken Parmesan

If you have leftovers, place the Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave it for a quick option.

Tips to Make Classic Chicken Parmesan

• Make sure to pound the chicken evenly for even cooking.
• Don’t skip the broiling step; it adds a lovely crispness to the cheese.
• If you want to make it healthier, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it and use whole wheat breadcrumbs.

Variation

For a twist, try using different types of cheese like provolone or fontina. You can also add a layer of spinach or roasted red peppers for extra color and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time due to being thicker and fattier.

2. Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped. When ready to eat, thaw and bake as directed.

3. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought marinara sauce can save you time and tastes great in this dish.

Ellie

Classic Chicken Parmesan

A delicious and easy-to-make Chicken Parmesan featuring crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, perfect for family dinners.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 540

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Chicken Preparation

• 3 pieces chicken breasts, sliced in half length-wise Pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking.

Breading Mixture

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour For coating the chicken.
• 3 pieces eggs, whisked Binding the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded For added flavor in the breadcrumb mixture.
• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs Use Italian-style breadcrumbs for best results.
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 2 tsp Italian herb blend (thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary) For seasoning the breadcrumbs.
• 1 tsp garlic powder For flavor.

Assembly and Toppings

• 1/3 cup olive oil For frying the chicken.
• 6 slices Mozzarella For layering on top of chicken.
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce Use homemade or store-bought.
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, shredded For sprinkling on top before broiling.
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped For garnish.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. Tenderize the chicken by pounding it to about 1/2 inch thickness. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

Breading the Chicken

1. In a shallow dish, mix together the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, Italian herb blend, and garlic powder.
2. Set up your assembly line with flour, whisked eggs, and the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Coat each piece of chicken first in flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally cover it with the breadcrumbs.

Cooking the Chicken

1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Brown the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s golden.

Baking and Serving

1. Arrange the browned chicken in a baking dish.
2. Layer each piece with sliced mozzarella and pour marinara sauce on top.
3. Bake in the oven for about 14 minutes.
4. Sprinkle with shredded parmesan and broil for 1 minute to brown the cheese.
5. Serve topped with fresh basil.

Notes

Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option. Don’t skip the broiling step for a nice crisp finish.