Easy Chicken Parmesan

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that can be prepared in under an hour, then Easy Chicken Parmesan is the perfect dish for you. This classic Italian-American recipe combines crispy, golden chicken breasts with a rich tomato sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s a family favorite that’s sure to impress at dinner parties or casual weeknight meals. Plus, it pairs beautifully with pasta, making it a complete meal that everyone will love.

Top Reasons to Make Easy Chicken Parmesan

• Quick and Simple: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of breadcrumbs, cheese, and marinara creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable: You can easily modify this recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this dish, making it a hit for the whole family.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 full breasts)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (can reduce to ½ cup to lower the carbs)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup pasta sauce (any flavor)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Pasta for serving

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Oven: To bake the chicken to perfection.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch dish works well for this recipe.
• Meat Mallet: For flattening the chicken breasts for even cooking.
• Mixing Bowls: To combine the breadcrumbs and cheese.
• Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: To prevent sticking.

Build Easy Chicken Parmesan Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and develop a lovely golden brown crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to about ½ inch thickness. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and results in a tender texture.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until evenly incorporated. This mixture will create a deliciously crispy coating for the chicken.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure it adheres. Place the breaded chicken in a baking dish that has been lightly sprayed with cooking spray or brushed with olive oil.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Bake the breaded chicken in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and spoon the pasta sauce evenly over each piece. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce, ensuring that each piece is generously covered.

Step 7: Broil for Extra Flavor

Return the dish to the oven and switch the setting to broil. Broil the chicken for an additional 2-4 minutes, or until the mozzarella is bubbly and lightly browned. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 8: Serve with Pasta

While the chicken is baking, cook your choice of pasta according to the package instructions. Serve the Easy Chicken Parmesan over a bed of pasta, and enjoy a hearty meal that delights the taste buds!

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

• Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs to reduce carbs.
• Opt for a low-sugar or homemade pasta sauce to keep the carb count down.
• Serve with zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead of traditional pasta for a lighter option.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Not flattening the chicken: This can lead to uneven cooking and dry chicken.
• Skipping the broil step: Broiling adds a delicious finish to the cheese, making it bubbly and flavorful.
• Overcooking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Using too much sauce: While sauce is essential, too much can make the dish soggy. Use just enough to complement the chicken.

How to Store & Reheat

To store leftovers, place the Easy Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also microwave it for a quick option, but it may not retain the same crispy texture.

Your Top Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain juicy, making them a great substitute for chicken breasts in this recipe.

What can I serve with Easy Chicken Parmesan?

This dish pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh side salad. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a lighter option.

Can I freeze Easy Chicken Parmesan?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and bread it ahead of time. Simply cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. Add an extra few minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Explore More

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for more delicious recipes.
• Pinch of Yum for inspiration on meal ideas.
• Minimalist Baker for simple and healthy recipes.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have the complete guide to making Easy Chicken Parmesan, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, you’ll create a meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy chicken, savory sauce, and melted cheese, and don’t forget to share your creation with us! Happy cooking!