Easy Chicken Parmigiana Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that combines crispy, golden perfection with a rich, savory sauce, look no further than this Easy Chicken Parmigiana Recipe. This classic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser and is surprisingly simple to make at home. With tender chicken breasts, a flavorful pomodoro sauce, and gooey cheese, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, let’s dive into why this dish has earned its place in the hearts and stomachs of so many!
Why Cooks Rave About It
There are countless reasons why cooks rave about this Easy Chicken Parmigiana Recipe. For one, it’s incredibly satisfying, balancing crispy textures with rich flavors. The combination of tender chicken, savory marinara, and bubbling cheese creates a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. Furthermore, it’s versatile—pair it with a simple salad, pasta, or even a side of roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a complete meal. Plus, it’s family-friendly and can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Ingredient List
- 2 (9-12 ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half widthwise
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups unseasoned bread crumbs
- 1 cup pomodoro sauce
- 8 ounces sliced mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded fontina cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Sea salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste
- Fresh chiffonade basil for garnish
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Meat mallet or rolling pin – For flattening chicken breasts evenly.
- Shallow bowls – For dredging flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Large skillet – To fry the chicken to crispy perfection.
- Baking dish – For assembling and baking the chicken with sauce and cheese.
- Sharp knife – For cutting chicken and garnishing with basil.
Easy Chicken Parmigiana Recipe in Steps
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly baked Chicken Parmigiana with melted cheese on top.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps them cook uniformly and stay juicy.
Step 3: Set Up the Dredging Stations
In three shallow bowls, set up your dredging stations: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with unseasoned bread crumbs. Season each bowl with a pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked pepper.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Take each piece of chicken and dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Set aside on a plate.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of pomodoro sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken on top of the sauce. Spoon additional pomodoro sauce over each piece of chicken, then layer on the sliced mozzarella, shredded fontina, and grated parmesan cheese.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is heated through.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chiffonade basil before serving. Pair your Chicken Parmigiana with a side of spaghetti, a fresh salad, or your favorite crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Year-Round Variations
- Vegetable Parmigiana: Swap the chicken for eggplant or zucchini for a delightful vegetarian option.
- Spicy Chicken Parmigiana: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the pomodoro sauce for a kick of heat.
- Pesto Chicken Parmigiana: Spread a layer of pesto on the chicken before adding the pomodoro sauce for a fresh twist.
- Cheesy Chicken Parmigiana: Mix different cheeses such as provolone or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Pro Perspective
To elevate your Easy Chicken Parmigiana Recipe, consider using homemade pomodoro sauce instead of store-bought. Simply sauté garlic and onions in olive oil, add crushed tomatoes, and simmer with fresh basil and oregano for a robust flavor. Additionally, let the chicken rest after frying to help retain its juices. This dish is all about balance—ensure you have enough sauce to complement the chicken without overwhelming it, allowing the flavors to shine.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store your Chicken Parmigiana in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. For best results, you can cover it with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too much. This dish also freezes well; simply wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reader Q&A
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before frying. Just make sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.
What can I serve with Chicken Parmigiana?
This dish pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad. You can also serve it over a bed of zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Provolone, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can add interesting flavors to your dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Chicken Parmigiana is great for meal prep! You can make a large batch and portion it out for easy reheating during the week. Just follow the storage tips mentioned above.
Hungry for More?
If you enjoyed this Easy Chicken Parmigiana Recipe, you might want to explore other delightful Italian-inspired dishes that are just as easy to make at home. Think creamy risottos, vibrant pasta salads, or even classic tiramisu for dessert. The world of Italian cuisine is vast and flavorful, so your culinary journey has only just begun!
This Easy Chicken Parmigiana Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families together around the dinner table. With its layers of flavor and satisfying crunch, it’s a dish that you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again. Happy cooking!
Easy Chicken Parmigiana Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly baked Chicken Parmigiana with melted cheese on top.
- Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps them cook uniformly and stay juicy.
- In three shallow bowls, set up your dredging stations: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with unseasoned bread crumbs. Season each bowl with a pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked pepper.
- Take each piece of chicken and dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Set aside on a plate.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of pomodoro sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken on top of the sauce. Spoon additional pomodoro sauce over each piece of chicken, then layer on the sliced mozzarella, shredded fontina, and grated parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is heated through.
- Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chiffonade basil before serving. Pair your Chicken Parmigiana with a side of spaghetti, a fresh salad, or your favorite crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Notes
- Use homemade pomodoro sauce for a richer flavor.
- Let the chicken rest after frying to retain juices.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
