Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
DifficultyEasy
Total time32 minutes
Servings4
Introduction to Easy Chicken Parmesan
Who says a scrumptious Italian dinner has to take all day? Not me! Let me introduce you to easy chicken parmesan – your new go-to for those hectic weeknights when you’re craving something hearty, but simple. Think about it - tender chicken pieces enveloped in a crispy breadcrumb mixture, smothered in homemade marinara sauce, and topped with molten mozzarella and parmesan cheese. It’s a dish that’s bound to make everyone at the table smile from ear to ear. And the best part? It’s an absolute breeze to whip up, making your dinner dilemma one less thing to worry about.
Key Takeaways:
- Ultimate convenience for quick weeknight dinners
- A family favorite featuring a top-notch combo of chicken, marinara sauce, and cheeses
- Effortless preparation that promises a delicious turnout every time
Gather Your Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts - trimmed and halved lengthwise for tender chicken tenders.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper - for seasoning that brings out the flavor of the chicken pieces.
- 2 large eggs - whisked for the perfect egg wash that ensures the breadcrumb mixture sticks.
- ½ cup Italian bread crumbs or panko bread crumbs for that extra crispy chicken exterior we all love.
- ½ cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish - because what's a parmesan recipe without plenty of parmesan cheese?
- 2 tablespoons olive oil - for sautéing the breaded chicken to golden perfection.
- 24 oz pasta sauce, homemade marinara sauce preferred - but store-bought can work in a pinch, embodying the heart of Italian food.
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese - because melting fresh mozzarella over your oven-baked chicken parmesan takes it to another level.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped - for a fresh herbaceous garnish that brings the dish to life.
Preparing Your Chicken Cutlets
Hey there! Let's talk about getting your chicken cutlets just right for our Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan. Now, this step is key because it's all about setting the stage for that tender, flavorful bite. Here's what you've got to do: first, slice those large chicken breasts lengthwise into thinner profiles. This isn't just busywork; it keeps cooking times quick and even. Next up, grab a mallet or rolling pin and give them a gentle pound. This isn't about taking out your day on the chicken; it's about tenderizing and ensuring our lovely spices and seasonings coat every nook and cranny. Speaking of which, season with just-right amounts of salt and black pepper. Trust me, these simple steps are your secret ingredient to a chicken that's just bursting with flavor under its crispy, golden breadcrumb armor.
The Breading Process
So, let's dive into what I like to call the magic of making that golden brown, crispy exterior that just sings in your mouth - the breading process. You and I, we’re about to turn these chicken pieces into something spectacular. Trust me, the difference a good breading can make is just out of this world. It’s like giving your chicken a crispy, flavorful hug.
- Start by dredging your tender chicken tenders in a light, yet thorough coat of all-purpose flour mixed with a pinch of salt and black pepper. This isn't just for taste; it helps the egg wash stick better.
- Next up, the egg wash. Dip those flour-dusted pieces into a blend of beaten eggs. Consider this the glue. It's what makes everything stick and gives the breading that perfect texture.
- Finally, the grand finale, coating those eggy chicken pieces in a harmonious mix of Italian bread crumbs, and let's not forget, the pièce de résistance, parmesan cheese. Here's where the magic happens, turning each piece into a crispy, mouth-watering delight.
This trio of steps isn’t just about layering; it’s about creating that impeccable, crunchy coating that defines the perfect chicken parm. So, let's get to breading and make some magic happen.
Baking to Perfection
I've found setting the oven to a cozy 425°F works wonders, creating that crispy chicken exterior we all love, without overwhelming the tender, juicy interior. It's a delicate dance of heat, taking about 15 minutes, but oh, is it worth it. This method isn't just about achieving that golden-brown deliciousness; it's about embracing a healthier way of cooking. By baking, we sidestep the need for excess oil, making this oven-baked chicken parmesan a guilt-free pleasure. It's the heart of Italian food, served right at your table, with less fuss and more love.
Serving Your Masterpiece
Now that we've mastered the art of easy chicken parmesan, it's showtime! Picture this: a plate of pasta swirled with homemade marinara sauce as the perfect companion to your crispy, oven-baked wonder. And why not elevate the experience with a side of fresh mozzarella-topped salad? But wait, there's more. Imagine transforming leftover breaded chicken into a hearty sub sandwich for tomorrow's lunch. Remember, whether it's served atop a mountain of spaghetti or nestled between fresh bread, a final sprinkle of fresh parsley can turn your dish from homemade to haute cuisine.
As you present this beautiful creation, your loved ones will be drawn in by the irresistible flavors and eye-catching presentation.
Krystel’s Cooking
Mangiare Bene, Vivere Felice
Reflecting on this journey into Italian cooking brings me to a simple, joyous realization: Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan is not just a dish; it's a delightful experience, weaving together the rich textures and flavors that define Italian food. Each step, from tenderizing the chicken tender pieces to enveloping them in a crispy breadcrumb mixture, paves the way for a creation that's both easy and satisfying. The mingling of homemade marinara sauce, melty mozzarella cheese, and a dash of fresh parsley transforms this into a culinary masterpiece that promises quick weeknight dinners without compromising on taste.
I urge you to make this recipe your own, maybe add a hint of fresh mozzarella or double down on the parmesan cheese for that extra gooey goodness. Remember, cooking is all about making it personal, so sprinkle in your favorite spices or herbs and let the oven do its magic, crafting that perfectly crispy chicken that's sure to wow any dinner table. Mangiare bene, vivere felice!
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts large sized
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup Italian bread crumbs
- ½ cup parmesan cheese shredded or grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 24 oz pasta sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by trimming and halving the breasts lengthwise to create four evenly thick cutlets. Season them with salt and pepper.
- Create a coating station with three bowls: one with a mixture of ½ cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper; another with frothy whisked eggs; and a third with a blend of ½ cup Italian bread crumbs and ½ cup parmesan cheese.
- Coat each chicken cutlet in flour, then egg, and finally in the cheesy breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a thick, even coating.
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Sauté the breaded chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Pour 1 ½ cups of marinara into a 9x13 casserole baking dish. Arrange the chicken in a single layer, top with the remaining marinara down the center of each piece, and cover with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake uncovered at 425˚F for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
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