Indulge in the comforting flavors of this easy chicken parmesan recipe that promises to satisfy your cravings with minimal effort. Juicy chicken breasts are breaded and baked to perfection, then topped with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is not only delightful but also easy to make, making it a staple in any kitchen. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is roughly 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 35g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fat: 25g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
4. Dip each chicken breast in olive oil, coating well.
5. Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
6. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each breast.
9. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
10. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with turkey cutlets or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a healthier option. Additionally, low-fat cheese can be used to reduce calories.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with spaghetti, a fresh garden salad, or garlic bread. A side of steamed vegetables also complements the meal nicely.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze before adding the sauce and cheese to maintain texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking.
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
- Using stale breadcrumbs can affect the flavor.
- Skipping the seasoning leads to bland chicken.
- Not letting the chicken rest before serving can make it tough.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor.
- Feel free to add sautéed vegetables to the marinara sauce for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make chicken parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken, coat it, and refrigerate it a day ahead. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of marinara sauce?
Alfredo sauce, pesto, or homemade tomato sauce are great alternatives to marinara.
Is chicken parmesan healthy?
It can be part of a healthy diet if prepared with lean chicken and moderate cheese portions. Use whole grain breadcrumbs for added fiber.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grilling will add a smoky flavor and can be a healthier option.
What sides go well with chicken parmesan?
Spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh salad are excellent choices to complement the dish.
Conclusion
This easy chicken parmesan recipe is a delightful addition to your dinner rotation. With its simplicity and delicious flavors, it brings comfort food to the next level. Enjoy this dish with family and friends for a memorable meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Easy Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
- Dip each chicken breast in olive oil, coating well.
- Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Place coated chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each breast.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
