Who doesn’t love a comforting, home-cooked meal? Especially one that’s simple to prepare and packs a punch of flavor? Chicken Parmesan is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I often compare it to a familiar melody that brings back beautiful memories – it’s that comforting!
However, the process of making a traditional Chicken Parmesan can be quite intimidating, especially for beginners. Frying the chicken, making the sauce, and ensuring the cheese is perfectly melted can be quite a task, right? But what if I told you that I’ve found an easy way to make this beloved dish using simple ingredients and straightforward steps? Sounds exciting, doesn’t it?
What is Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish. The star of the dish is a breaded chicken cutlet that is fried, covered in tomato sauce, sprinkled with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, and then baked to perfection. The end result is a savory, cheesy goodness that makes your taste buds dance with joy.
It’s typically served over pasta or in a hearty sub sandwich. But regardless of how you serve it, Chicken Parmesan never fails to impress!
The Secret to Easy Chicken Parmesan
The secret to making an easy Chicken Parmesan lies in simplifying the process. Instead of frying the chicken, we’re going to bake it. This not only saves you the mess of frying but also makes the dish a bit healthier. Trust me, it doesn’t compromise the taste at all!
We’re also using a store-bought marinara sauce instead of making it from scratch. You’d be surprised at how many fantastic jarred marinara sauces are out there. Just pick your favorite one!
Health Benefits of Chicken Parmesan
Despite being a cheesy dish, Chicken Parmesan can be quite healthy. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while tomatoes in the marinara sauce provide essential vitamins and antioxidants. Furthermore, when we bake the chicken instead of frying it, we cut down on the fat content significantly.
Of course, moderation is key when it comes to any dish, especially one that includes cheese. But with this easy Chicken Parmesan, you can indulge a bit without feeling guilty!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Coat the chicken breasts in the mixture and place them on the baking tray.
- Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Take the chicken out of the oven and top each piece with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot over pasta or in a sandwich.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Tips for Easy Chicken Parmesan
1. Use fresh chicken breasts for the best taste and texture. 2. For a crispier crust, you can toast the breadcrumbs before coating the chicken. 3. If you want to make it even healthier, you can use whole wheat breadcrumbs and low-fat cheese.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This easy Chicken Parmesan is a must-try because it takes a beloved dish and simplifies it without losing any of the flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a dish that the whole family will love!
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 495 kcal