Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, features boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are breaded and fried, then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It is traditionally served over a bed of pasta, like spaghetti, or with a side of garlic bread. This dish is a crowd-pleaser with its combination of crispy chicken, savory sauce, and creamy cheese.
The total time to prepare Chicken Parmesan is around 40 to 45 minutes. This includes prepping the chicken, frying it, and baking it with the cheese and marinara sauce. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts and your oven’s heating. For best results, bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Preparing Chicken Parmesan at home is always a rewarding experience. The key is getting the breading just right and ensuring the chicken stays tender inside while achieving that crispy, golden crust. One of the best parts is watching the cheese melt and bubble over the chicken, creating a deliciously satisfying sight. It’s easy to customise with extra herbs, or even use a different kind of cheese for added flavour. It’s a dish that never fails to impress family and friends.
Why You’ll Love It Chicken Parmesan
- Deliciously Crispy Coating: The crispy breading on Chicken Parmesan makes each bite irresistible. It adds a satisfying crunch, giving you the perfect contrast to the juicy, tender chicken inside.
- Mouthwatering Cheese Layer: The melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top bring richness and creaminess to the dish. This cheesy goodness creates a comforting, savory experience with every bite.
- Perfect Balance of Flavours: The marinara sauce, seasoned with herbs and spices, complements the chicken and cheese perfectly. It brings a touch of tanginess, balancing out the richness of the cheese and the crispy coating.
Ingredient Notes for Chicken Parmesan
- Chicken Breasts: Fresh, boneless, and skinless chicken breasts work best for this dish. They’re easy to bread and cook quickly, giving you the perfect base for your Chicken Parmesan.
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps coat the chicken and creates a crispy layer when frying. It also helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick better.
- Eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the breadcrumbs to the chicken. They create a golden, crispy exterior when fried.
- Breadcrumbs: Use breadcrumbs for the crunch factor. You can use store-bought or make your own, but they should be fine and dry to ensure an even coating.
- Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients. Freshly grated is always the best option for the perfect taste and texture.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully, giving the dish a gooey and delicious texture. It balances out the Parmesan’s sharpness.
- Marinara Sauce: A good marinara sauce is key. Choose one that’s flavorful, with rich tomato taste, garlic, and herbs. It enhances the overall flavor profile of Chicken Parmesan.
- Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a burst of herbal freshness and a pop of colour to the dish, making it more aromatic and visually appealing.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is ideal for frying the chicken, giving it a rich flavor. It’s also a healthier option compared to other oils.
- Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors in your Chicken Parmesan. Use salt and pepper generously to ensure it tastes just right.
Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch
Chicken Parmesan is a delicious dish that combines crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese. To make it your own, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Opt for seasoned breadcrumbs to add texture and extra flavour. This step ensures your Chicken Parmesan stands out.
When making Chicken Parmesan, try baking the chicken instead of frying it for a healthier option. You can also use different cheeses like provolone or mozzarella for variety. Adding a sprinkle of parmesan on top of the baked chicken can elevate the taste and add a rich finish to the dish.
Feel free to customise your Chicken Parmesan by adding herbs such as basil or oregano to the marinara sauce. You can also serve it with a side of pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget to add a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavour.
Chicken Parmesan Variation
If you want to try something different, there are several variations of Chicken Parmesan you can explore. For instance, you can swap chicken for eggplant for a vegetarian version, or even use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone. Another option is to bake the chicken in the oven instead of frying it for a healthier version. You can also add herbs like basil or oregano to the breading for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan is best served with a side of pasta, like spaghetti or penne, but you can also pair it with a green salad or garlic bread. It makes for a great meal for both casual dinners or special occasions. Simply plate the chicken with a generous helping of marinara sauce and melted cheese, and enjoy with your favorite sides.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, Chicken Parmesan can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, place the chicken in an airtight container. When reheating, it’s best to warm it in the oven to maintain its crispy texture. You can also freeze Chicken Parmesan for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before storing it in a freezer-safe container.
FAQs About Chicken Parmesan
How is Chicken Parmesan made?
To make Chicken Parmesan, boneless chicken breasts are first breaded and fried until crispy. Then, marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese are added on top, and it’s baked until the cheese melts and the dish is golden.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Chicken Parmesan ahead of time by breading and frying the chicken, then refrigerating it. When ready to serve, simply add the sauce and cheese, then bake until heated through.
What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan pairs well with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
Is Chicken Parmesan gluten-free?
Traditional Chicken Parmesan is not gluten-free because it uses bread crumbs in the breading. However, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or a different coating like crushed cornflakes.
Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by tenderizing the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, making sure it's fully coated.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s coated on both sides.
- Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until the chicken is golden and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Make the Marinara Sauce (if homemade): While the chicken is frying, make your marinara sauce. In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir and simmer for 10-15 minutes, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the Chicken Parmesan: Once the chicken is fried and crispy, transfer the pieces to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, and then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
