Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these are the main protein component of the dish.

Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs are pre-seasoned with Italian herbs and spices, adding flavor to the chicken coating.

Parmesan cheese: Grated cheese that adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish.

Marinara sauce: A tomato-based sauce that adds moisture and tangy flavor to the chicken.

Mozzarella cheese: Shredded cheese that melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy topping.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken, adding a rich flavor and helping to achieve a golden brown crust.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the seasoning.

When preparing chicken breasts for Chicken Parmesan, consider pounding them to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin, placing the chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap to avoid mess. This step also helps the seasoning and breadcrumbs adhere better, resulting in a more flavorful and crispy exterior.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a good alternative.

• italian seasoned breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs mixed with italian seasoning: Panko breadcrumbs provide a similar crunch, and adding Italian seasoning will mimic the original flavor.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and tangy flavor, making it a suitable replacement.

• marinara sauce - Substitute with tomato basil sauce: Tomato basil sauce offers a similar tomato base with added basil for a fresh twist.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with shredded provolone cheese: Provolone melts similarly to mozzarella and has a comparable mild flavor.

• olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties, making it a good alternative.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar level of saltiness.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and flavor profile but is slightly milder, making it a good substitute.

• Allow the chicken parmesan to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the chicken breasts to an airtight container. If stacking, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• For freezing, wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness. Chicken parmesan can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• To reheat from frozen, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove any plastic wrap and place the chicken in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.
• For a crispier texture, uncover the dish for the last 10 minutes of reheating.
• If using a microwave, reheat on a microwave-safe plate, covered with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat on medium power in 2-minute intervals until hot, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover chicken parmesan in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist.
  4. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through and the cheese is bubbly.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the cheese topping.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the chicken parmesan on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent splatters.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until the chicken is hot and the cheese is melted.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil to the skillet.
  3. Place the chicken parmesan in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is warmed through and the cheese is melted.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chicken parmesan in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is hot and the cheese is bubbly and slightly crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the chicken parmesan until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Skillet: Used to cook the chicken breasts until they are golden brown.

• Baking dish: Holds the chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and cheese for baking.

• Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken breasts in the skillet.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and marinara sauce accurately.

• Grater: Used to grate the parmesan cheese if it is not pre-grated.

• Spatula: Useful for spreading the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken.

• Knife: Used to trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for seasoning and preparing the chicken breasts.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese if needed.

• Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

• Serving platter: Used to present the finished chicken parmesan attractively.

• Basil leaves: Optional garnish to add a fresh touch to the dish.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and organize breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and marinara sauce before starting.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Opt for pre-cooked chicken breasts to skip the skillet step.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while you season the chicken.

One-pan method: Use an oven-safe skillet to cook and bake the chicken in the same pan.

Shred cheese beforehand: Shred the mozzarella cheese ahead of time to save minutes during assembly.