This Easy Chicken Parm is a tasty dish with juicy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and lots of bubbly cheese on top. It’s a family favorite that comes together quickly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. If you want a leaner option, chicken thighs work well too. They are juicier and stay tender during cooking.
Breadcrumbs: I used Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for flavor. If you’re gluten-free, you can swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for a crunchy texture.
Marinara Sauce: Any jarred marinara works, but homemade is always better if you have time! If you’re out, pizza sauce makes a decent substitute.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that classic gooey texture. You can also mix in provolone or a bit of cheddar if you like a sharper flavor. Dairy-free cheese is a good swap for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked and Crispy?
A crunchy coating and perfectly cooked chicken are crucial. Begin by pounding the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Don’t rush the cooking! Use medium-high heat in your skillet, as high heat can burn the breading before the chicken cooks through.
- Pan-fry each cutlet for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer to the oven immediately after frying to finish cooking and melt the cheese; about 15 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Remember to let your chicken rest for a minute or two after baking; it keeps the juices locked in. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Easy Chicken Parm
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz spaghetti
- Fresh basil or parsley leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Mixed greens salad (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Chicken Parm recipe will take about 30 minutes total. This includes approximately 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking and baking. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when your chicken is ready to bake.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally so you have 4 thin cutlets. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
3. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Get three shallow dishes ready: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken cutlet and coat it in the flour first, shaking off the excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Make sure to press down a bit so the breadcrumbs stick well!
5. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once cooked, transfer them to a baking dish.
6. Assemble the Chicken Parm:
Pour the marinara sauce over each cutlet, making sure to cover them well. Then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of the sauce.
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Cook the Spaghetti:
While the chicken is baking, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and toss with a little marinara sauce to keep it flavorful.
9. Serve:
Plate the spaghetti and place a chicken parm cutlet on top. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley, and if you’d like, serve it with a fresh mixed greens salad.
10. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious homemade Easy Chicken Parm!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option and tend to be juicier. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Marinara Sauce?
If you’re out of marinara sauce, you can use pizza sauce or even a homemade tomato sauce. Just make sure it’s seasoned well for the best flavor!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the breaded chicken cutlets a day in advance and keep them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve. You can also bake the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before reheating.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven or microwave until heated through, keeping an eye on the cheese to ensure it doesn’t overcook.