Craving a dinner that’s quick to make, surprisingly healthy, and bursting with flavor? Look no further! My Chicken Parmesan Recipe is a weeknight game-changer. It delivers all the classic comfort without spending hours in the kitchen. With a few simple tweaks, it’s also lighter than traditional versions, so you can enjoy every delicious bite guilt-free. This recipe has been my secret weapon for years— it always impresses, even when I’m short on time. Let me share it with you.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Growing up, Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s were legendary. While her lasagna was the star, her chicken parmesan was a very close second. This Chicken Parmesan Recipe isn’t quite hers (that’s a closely guarded family secret!), but I’ve aimed to recapture that same feeling of comfort and joy with a slightly healthier, more weeknight-friendly version. It’s about bringing those cherished moments to your table, no matter how busy life gets.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce & Assembly:
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- You can use store-bought marinara sauce, or homemade if you have the time!
- Panko breadcrumbs give the chicken a delightfully crispy texture.
- Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
- Prepare the chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound with a meat mallet until about 1/2-inch thick.
- Create the breading station: In a shallow dish, combine flour, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another shallow dish, place the beaten egg. In a third shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat evenly with the panko breadcrumb mixture.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Assemble the Chicken Parmesan Recipe: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Top each with a generous amount of marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips for Best Results
To elevate your Chicken Parmesan Recipe, consider a few key details. First, don’t skip pounding the chicken; it ensures even cooking and tender results. Second, using quality marinara sauce truly enhances the overall flavor profile. Taste-test different brands to find one you love. Thirdly, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and delicious. For a richer flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. Also, if you want extra crispy breading, you can lightly spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray before baking. Enjoy the process, even if it’s just another weeknight dinner; attention to detail makes all the difference!
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Parmesan Recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. For a classic Italian experience, serve it over spaghetti or linguine, tossed with a little extra marinara sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. Alternatively, roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini offer a healthy and colorful accompaniment. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. If you’re looking for something a little different, try serving it with creamy polenta or risotto. Finally, don’t forget a glass of your favorite red wine to complete the meal! No matter what you choose, the goal is to create a balanced and satisfying dining experience centered around the star of the show: your homemade chicken parmesan!
Conclusion
My Chicken Parmesan Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor the simple pleasures of delicious, home-cooked food. It’s a testament to the fact that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create something truly satisfying. From the crispy, golden-brown breading to the bubbling cheese and fragrant marinara sauce, every bite is a celebration of classic Italian flavors. By incorporating healthier techniques and simple ingredients, you can enjoy this classic comfort food without sacrificing flavor or your well-being. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to experience the joy of creating something special. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
- Prepare the chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound with a meat mallet until about 1/2-inch thick.
- Create the breading station: In a shallow dish, combine flour, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another shallow dish, place the beaten egg. In a third shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat evenly with the panko breadcrumb mixture.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Assemble the Chicken Parmesan Recipe: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Top each with a generous amount of marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
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