Irresistible Chicken Parmesan: A Comfort Food Classic

The aroma of bubbling marinara sauce wafts through the air, mingling with the golden crust of melted mozzarella that crowns a perfectly cooked chicken breast. Chicken parmesan is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug, wrapping you in warmth and comfort with each bite.

Picture this: you’re hosting friends for dinner, and as they take their first mouthful, you can practically see their taste buds dance. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience filled with laughter and compliments, perfect for cozy gatherings or a weeknight pick-me-up.

I still remember the time I made chicken parmesan for my sister’s birthday; her delighted squeals were music to my ears as she devoured every last bite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These give an extra crispy coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.

• Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce for an authentic touch.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole milk mozzarella for that gooey stretch we all love.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is ideal; it adds a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.

• Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs like oregano and basil enhances the overall taste.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle will help achieve that beautiful golden crust when baking.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning your chicken to perfection.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preparing the Chicken: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season each chicken breast with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their natural flavors.

Breading Station Setup: In one bowl, whisk together eggs and garlic. In another bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning. This creates a flavorful coating that’ll make your chicken sing.

Dipping Time!: Dip each seasoned chicken breast into the egg mixture first, then coat it generously in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered. This step is crucial for achieving that satisfying crunch.

Searing the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 3-4 minutes each side. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Baking to Perfection : Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish. Top each piece with marinara sauce, followed by a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Serving It Up!: Let your masterpiece rest for about five minutes after removing it from the oven. Serve hot with extra marinara on the side or over pasta if you’re feeling adventurous.

Now go ahead and enjoy this scrumptious chicken parmesan! You deserve every cheesy bite filled with joy and comfort that only good food can bring.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken breasts until golden brown before simmering in sauce. Cook pasta while prepping the dish for maximum efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out breadcrumbs for panko or add different cheeses like provolone. Experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme to make it your own.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness or microwave if you’re in a hurry.

Sharing my first experience making Chicken Parmesan was unforgettable; my family devoured it and declared me a kitchen hero for the night!

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for Chicken Parmesan?

Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

What side dishes pair well with Chicken Parmesan?

Garlic bread and a fresh salad complement this dish perfectly.

How do I keep my chicken from drying out?

Brining your chicken before cooking helps maintain moisture and tenderness.

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Chicken Parmesan

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Chicken Parmesan is the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy, breaded chicken breasts smothered in tangy marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella and parmesan cheese. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, bringing warmth and joy to your table with every bite. It’s easy to prepare and can be served over pasta or in a sub for a delicious twist.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1.5 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Set up a breading station: In one bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and minced garlic; in another, mix panko breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking dish, top with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (180g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 100mg