If you’re on a quest to find the ultimate Chicken Parmesan that marries crispy, golden breaded chicken with a luscious tomato sauce and gooey cheese, then look no further! This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be savoring every bite of this classic Italian-American dish.
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Chicken Parmesan recipe stands out because it balances flavor, texture, and simplicity. The juicy chicken breast is tenderized to perfection and coated with a delightful mix of cheeses that melt beautifully. The homemade sauce, bursting with fresh flavors, elevates the dish to a whole new level. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
What’s in the Bowl
Let’s break down the ingredients that create this mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan:
- 1 Tbsp olive oil – for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion – provides a sweet and savory base for the sauce.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (2 tsp) – enhances the flavor profile with a punch of aroma.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed Roma tomatoes – the star of the sauce, offering rich and tangy notes.
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano – contributes a warm, earthy flavor.
- 2 fresh basil sprigs* – adds freshness and a classic Italian touch.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – essential seasonings to taste.
- 2 (8 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the main protein, butterflied and pounded for even cooking.
- 2 oz whole-milk mozzarella cheese, shredded (1/2 cup) – provides that melty goodness.
- 2 oz provolone cheese, shredded (1/2 cup) – adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
- 1 large egg – helps bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour – assists in creating a crispy coating.
- 1 1/2 oz Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (1/2 cup) – introduces a nutty, salty element.
- 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs – ensures a light and crunchy crust.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder – enhances garlic flavor in the coating.
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano – complements the herbs used in the sauce.
- 1/3 cup olive oil – for frying the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1/4 cup torn fresh basil – for garnish, bringing a pop of color and flavor.
Recommended Tools
To make your Chicken Parmesan experience seamless, gather the following tools:
- Large skillet – for cooking the chicken and sauce.
- Meat mallet – to pound the chicken to an even thickness.
- Mixing bowls – for preparing the breading and egg wash.
- Spatula – for flipping the chicken.
- Oven-safe baking dish – to finish cooking the chicken with cheese and sauce.
- Cooking thermometer – optional, but great for ensuring chicken is perfectly cooked.
Make The Best Chicken Parmesan: A Simple Method
Creating the best Chicken Parmesan is straightforward. Follow these steps for a delightful meal:
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed Roma tomatoes, and stir in the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss in the fresh basil sprigs, and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the sauce simmers, prepare the chicken. Butterfly each chicken breast and pound them to about 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station
In one bowl, beat the large egg. In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. In a third bowl, mix together the Panko bread crumbs, shredded mozzarella, provolone, and 1/2 of the Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten egg, coating thoroughly. Finally, press the chicken into the Panko mixture, ensuring a generous coating.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
In the same skillet, heat 1/3 cup of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Use a cooking thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a baking dish, spread a layer of the prepared tomato sauce. Place the fried chicken on top, then spoon more sauce over each piece. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top, followed by a scattering of torn fresh basil.
Step 7: Bake
Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve your Chicken Parmesan with a side of pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps
If you’re looking to make this Chicken Parmesan dairy-free or gluten-free, consider these swaps:
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of Panko.
- Replace the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives such as cashew cheese or almond-based mozzarella.
- Opt for a gluten-free all-purpose flour for breading.
If You’re Curious
Curious about the history of Chicken Parmesan? This beloved dish has its roots in Italy, where it is known as “Melanzane alla Parmigiana,” made primarily with eggplant. The American version emerged as Italian immigrants adapted traditional recipes to include chicken for a heartier meal—a true testament to culinary innovation!
Freezer-Friendly Notes
Planning ahead? Chicken Parmesan is freezer-friendly! Here are some tips:
- After frying the chicken, let it cool completely before assembling the dish.
- Wrap the unbaked Chicken Parmesan tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- To bake from frozen, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Common Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
Pair it with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and bread the chicken in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble before cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture!
Healthy-ish Favorites
Looking for more healthy-ish recipes? Check out these favorites:
The Last Word
In the realm of comfort food, Chicken Parmesan reigns supreme. With a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, this dish is not only satisfying but also easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the best Chicken Parmesan you’ve ever tasted!
The Best Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 1 Tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can crushed Roma tomatoes 28 oz
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 2 sprigs fresh basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 2 breasts boneless, skinless chicken butterflied and pounded
- 2 oz whole-milk mozzarella cheese shredded
- 2 oz provolone cheese shredded
- 1 large egg
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 oz Parmesan cheese finely shredded
- 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/3 cup olive oil for frying
- 1/4 cup torn fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed Roma tomatoes, and stir in the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss in the fresh basil sprigs, and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
Prepare the Chicken:
- While the sauce simmers, butterfly each chicken breast and pound them to about 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Set Up the Breading Station:
- In one bowl, beat the large egg. In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. In a third bowl, mix together the Panko bread crumbs, shredded mozzarella, provolone, and 1/2 of the Parmesan cheese.
Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten egg, coating thoroughly. Finally, press the chicken into the Panko mixture, ensuring a generous coating.
Fry the Chicken:
- In the same skillet, heat 1/3 cup of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Assemble the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a baking dish, spread a layer of the prepared tomato sauce. Place the fried chicken on top, then spoon more sauce over each piece. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top, followed by a scattering of torn fresh basil.
Bake:
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve your Chicken Parmesan with a side of pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Meat mallet
- Mixing Bowls
- Spatula
- Oven-safe Baking Dish
- Cooking thermometer
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Make it dairy-free by substituting cheeses with dairy-free alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
