Name: Easy Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts; ¾ cup breadcrumbs; ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup pasta sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; pasta (for serving)

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There’s something about Easy Chicken Parmesan that instantly transports me back to cozy family dinners. I remember the first time I tried this dish; the aroma of melting cheese and savory chicken filled the house, creating a warm atmosphere that felt like a hug. It was one of those recipes my mom made on busy weeknights, effortlessly combining comfort and flavor. As the chicken baked in the oven, we would gather around the table, eagerly anticipating that first bite. This dish has a way of bringing people together, making every meal feel like a special occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
40 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Oven, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet

What You’ll Enjoy About This Easy Chicken Parmesan

It’s a Family Favorite

When it comes to family meals, Easy Chicken Parmesan never disappoints. It’s a classic that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The crispy chicken, combined with rich parmesan and mozzarella, creates a satisfying dish that feels indulgent without being overly complicated to prepare.

Quick and Simple

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. You can whip it up in just a few steps, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights. The combination of chicken and breadcrumbs is a classic pairing that requires minimal ingredients, yet delivers maximum flavor. Who doesn’t love a meal that tastes gourmet but is easy enough to make after a long day?

Versatile Serving Options

Another reason I love Easy Chicken Parmesan is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Whether you choose pasta, a fresh salad, or even some crusty bread, you can customize the meal to suit your family’s preferences. This makes it a fantastic option for gatherings or simple weeknight dinners.

A Comforting Classic

There’s something incredibly comforting about the melted mozzarella cheese and tangy pasta sauce atop the crispy chicken. It invokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth, reminding me of family gatherings where we sat around the table, sharing stories and laughter. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of the love and joy shared in our home.

Perfect for Leftovers

Don’t underestimate the leftovers! Chicken Parmesan is one of those rare dishes that tastes even better the next day. I often find myself savoring the cold leftovers straight from the fridge, or reheating them for a quick lunch. It’s comforting to know that this dish can continue to delight even after the initial serving.

What to Gather for Easy Chicken Parmesan

When it comes to crafting the perfect Easy Chicken Parmesan, the ingredients play a crucial role in creating that delightful flavor. Each component works in harmony, contributing to the overall deliciousness of the dish. The star here is definitely the chicken, which, when breaded and baked to perfection, becomes an irresistible canvas for the savory cheeses and sauce.

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein, these chicken breasts stay juicy and tender when cooked correctly.
¾ cup breadcrumbs: These add a satisfying crunch to the chicken, making every bite enjoyable.
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese: This cheese adds a nutty, salty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
1 cup pasta sauce: Choose any flavor you love; it’s the perfect complement to the cheese and chicken.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This gooey cheese melts beautifully and forms a delicious layer on top.
Pasta: Ideal for serving, pasta makes this dish hearty and fulfilling.

The Process for Making Easy Chicken Parmesan

Making Easy Chicken Parmesan is a delightful experience, filled with delicious aromas and satisfying textures. You’ll love how straightforward it is to put together. Let’s get started on this culinary adventure!

Preheat your oven to 450°F. This will ensure that the chicken cooks quickly and crisps up nicely.
Spray a 9×9” pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easy cleanup later.
Depending on the sizes of your chicken breasts, slice each lengthwise into 4-6 ounce pieces. Thinner pieces will cook faster and become crispier.
In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Stir together until evenly mixed; this will create a flavorful coating for the chicken.
Next, take each sliced piece of chicken and dip it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring to coat both sides thoroughly. This coating is what gives it that irresistible crunch.
Once coated, place the chicken pieces in the prepared pan. Make sure they’re laid out in a single layer for even cooking.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they start to look golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them; oven times can vary!
Remove the hot pan from the oven and add pasta sauce and a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top of each piece of chicken. This is where the magic happens!
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese looks perfectly gooey.
Serve over pasta if desired, or enjoy it on its own with a fresh salad for a lower-carb option. Each bite will remind you of why this dish is such a beloved classic.

Things Worth Knowing

Use a meat thermometer: Make sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Let the chicken rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices.
Experiment with cheese: While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses for more flavor.
Customize your sauce: Don’t hesitate to get creative with the pasta sauce; try adding herbs or spices to elevate the flavor.

Making Adjustments

Cooking is all about adjustments based on personal taste and circumstances. Here are a few tips to help you customize Easy Chicken Parmesan to suit your preferences:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the baked chicken for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping.
Pairing: This dish goes wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to your breadcrumb mixture.
Gluten-free option: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to cater to dietary needs.

What to Serve With Easy Chicken Parmesan

When it comes to serving Easy Chicken Parmesan, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic suggestions for side dishes and pairings:

Pasta: Serve with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even zoodles for a lighter option.
Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad pairs perfectly with this dish, balancing the richness of the cheese.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds a wonderful texture and flavor complement to the meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Add some seasonal roasted veggies for a colorful and nutritious side.
Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of your favorite white wine for a classic combination, if desired.
Lunch Option: Leftover chicken makes for a quick and delicious lunch. Slice it up on a salad or sandwich.

FAQ

Easy Chicken Parmesan is a delicious baked dish featuring breaded and baked chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a comforting meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. This dish beautifully combines crispy textures with savory flavors, making it a favorite among many.

To achieve a crispy texture for your Easy Chicken Parmesan, make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly in breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Bake at a high temperature of 450°F to ensure the breadcrumbs get golden and crunchy. You can also spray the chicken with a bit of cooking oil before baking to enhance the crispiness.

Absolutely! While mozzarella is the traditional choice for Easy Chicken Parmesan, you can experiment with other cheeses as well. Try adding provolone for a different flavor or even a blend of cheeses for more complexity. Just keep in mind the melting characteristics of the cheese you choose!

There are many delicious sides that complement Easy Chicken Parmesan. Classic choices include spaghetti or other varieties of pasta tossed in olive oil or garlic butter. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread is also a fantastic side that pairs beautifully with this dish!

Conclusion

The Easy Chicken Parmesan is truly a winner in both flavor and simplicity. Its combination of crispy chicken, rich cheese, and savory sauce makes it a family favorite. I encourage you to try this recipe soon; it’s perfect for any night of the week and is sure to impress everyone around your dinner table!