simple chicken parmigiana recipe

simple chicken parmigiana recipe

The Best simple chicken parmigiana recipe

I’ve been making chicken parmigiana for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. The dish originated in Italy, where it’s known as ‘pollo alla cacciatora,’ meaning ‘hunter-style chicken.’

It’s a classic recipe that consists of breaded and fried chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. My kids love it because it’s easy to eat and tastes like takeout, but I appreciate it because it’s a relatively healthy option for a weeknight dinner.

The key to making good chicken parmigiana is to not overcook the chicken, so it stays juicy and tender. I also like to use homemade breadcrumbs instead of store-bought ones for a more authentic flavor.

The whole family can get involved in making this dish, from breading the chicken to assembling the final product. It’s a great way to spend quality time together while also getting a delicious meal on the table.

One of my favorite things about chicken parmigiana is that it’s versatile – you can serve it with pasta, rice, or even as a sandwich. My kids prefer it as a sandwich, so I’ll often serve it on sub rolls with a side of garlic knots.

The combination of flavors and textures is what makes this dish so special – the crispy breadcrumbs give way to the juicy chicken, which is then smothered in tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a perfect comfort food for when you need something warm and satisfying.

Simple Chicken Parmigiana

Simple Chicken Parmigiana

4.9 from 1432 votes

A classic Italian-American dish featuring breaded chicken cutlets topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese. This simple recipe serves 4 people and is ready in under an hour.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
2 cups breadcrumbs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

1 cup tomato sauce
2 cloves garlic
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil

For the Topping

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 450°F.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3Prepare the chicken by pounding each breast to an even thickness and seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Set aside.
4Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes.
5Place flour in the first dish.
6Beat the eggs in the second dish.
7Place breadcrumbs in the third dish.
8Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
9Then, dip it in the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
10Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
11Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
12Bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
13The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
14While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce.
15In a small bowl, mix tomato sauce, minced garlic, oregano, and basil.
16Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven.
17Spoon the sauce evenly over each chicken breast.
18Sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses on top of the sauce.
19Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
20The top should be lightly golden.
21Remove the chicken parmigiana from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
22Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Spoon
Fork
Grater

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. You can also add a layer of sliced tomatoes or spinach to make it more nutritious.

Watch Video Of How Simple Chicken Parmigiana Works

This simple chicken parmigiana recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive main course for guests.

My family loves this recipe because it’s easy to make and always turns out deliciously – even my picky eaters enjoy it!

The leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or on the stovetop, making this recipe perfect for meal prep or when you need something quick on busy nights.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Parmigiana

Q: What is the difference between chicken parmigiana and chicken parmesan?

Chicken parmigiana and chicken parmesan are essentially the same dish, but the terms are often used interchangeably in different parts of the world. Chicken parmesan is an Italian-American term that refers specifically to breaded and fried cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can use different types of cheese in place of mozzarella or parmesan. Some popular alternatives include provolone, ricotta, and even feta.

Q: How do I prevent the breading from falling off the chicken?

To prevent the breading from falling off the chicken, make sure to coat each piece evenly before frying. You can also try dipping the coated chicken in beaten eggs before frying for an extra layer of adhesion.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time by freezing it on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container for storage. When you’re ready to cook it, simply thaw the frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before frying.

Q: What is the best way to reheat leftover chicken parmigiana?

The best way to reheat leftover chicken parmigiana is by baking it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps maintain the crispy texture of the breading while reheating.

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