Homemade Chicken Parmesan Dinner Recipe
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy a comforting and delicious Homemade Chicken Parmesan Dinner that family and friends will love!
This Homemade Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that combines crispy breaded chicken with a rich tomato sauce and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, golden-brown chicken with a cheesy topping
- Flavorful marinara sauce complements the chicken perfectly
- Easy to make and great for meal prep
A Classic Italian Dish
Chicken Parmesan is a beloved dish that has its roots in Italian-American cuisine. This hearty meal combines the satisfying crunch of breaded chicken with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese, creating a delightful symphony of flavors. It's a comfort food that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Traditionally, Chicken Parmesan is served with pasta, but it can also be paired with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a lighter option. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to suit your taste preferences, whether you enjoy a spicy marinara sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of this Homemade Chicken Parmesan Dinner is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for busy weeknights. Simply prepare the chicken, assemble the dish, and store it in airtight containers. When you're ready to enjoy a delicious meal, just pop it in the oven, and you'll have a homemade dinner in no time.
Additionally, this recipe can be portioned out for individual servings, making it a breeze to grab and go. Whether you're packing lunch for work or looking for a quick dinner solution, Chicken Parmesan is a reliable choice that won't compromise on flavor or satisfaction.
Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect Chicken Parmesan, ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying the chicken. This will help create that coveted crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy on the inside. A temperature of around 350°F (175°C) is ideal for frying. If you're unsure, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread in; it should sizzle and turn golden brown within seconds.
Don't hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese or seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture. Adding a pinch of garlic powder, Italian herbs, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile of your Chicken Parmesan. Personalizing the recipe to match your taste can make it even more enjoyable.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Parmesan
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Gather all your ingredients to make the preparation easier!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture.
Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Assemble and Bake
In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, place the fried chicken on top, then add more sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Once baked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
When serving Chicken Parmesan, consider pairing it with a side of spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in olive oil and garlic for a classic Italian experience. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing balance.
For a heartier meal, you can serve the Chicken Parmesan over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside garlic bread for dipping into the marinara sauce. These sides will enhance the overall dining experience and leave your guests satisfied.
Storage and Reheating
To store leftover Chicken Parmesan, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When freezing, consider separating the chicken from the sauce to maintain the best texture upon reheating.
To reheat, simply place the Chicken Parmesan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time for it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up. This way, you'll be able to enjoy the delicious flavors just like the first time.
Variations to Try
For a healthier twist, you can bake the breaded chicken instead of frying it. Simply spray the coated chicken with olive oil and bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. This method reduces the amount of oil used while still achieving a crispy texture.
You might also consider adding vegetables to your Chicken Parmesan. Sliced zucchini, roasted red peppers, or spinach can be layered between the chicken and cheese for added nutrition and flavor. This not only enhances the dish visually but also makes it a more well-rounded meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe and can add moisture.
→ Is there a vegetarian alternative?
You can substitute chicken with eggplant or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
→ Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then bake when ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
It pairs well with pasta, a side salad, or garlic bread.
Homemade Chicken Parmesan Dinner Recipe
Enjoy a comforting and delicious Homemade Chicken Parmesan Dinner that family and friends will love!
Created by: Summer Blake
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Parmesan
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, place the fried chicken on top, then add more sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g