Homemade Chicken Parmesan Dinner Recipe
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Discover the delightful flavors of this Homemade Chicken Parmesan Dinner Recipe, perfect for a family meal or entertaining guests.
This Homemade Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that combines crispy breaded chicken with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for any occasion!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Crispy chicken coated in a flavorful breading
- Rich marinara sauce adds a burst of flavor
- Melted cheese makes every bite irresistible
The Perfect Family Meal
Homemade Chicken Parmesan is a dish that brings everyone together around the dinner table. Its combination of crispy chicken, savory marinara, and gooey cheese creates a comforting meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Not only is this Chicken Parmesan delicious, but it is also versatile. You can serve it alongside a variety of sides such as spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for any gathering, ensuring that there’s something for everyone on the table.
A Flavorful Experience
The rich marinara sauce in this recipe is a game-changer. With the addition of dried oregano and garlic powder, it elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish. This homemade sauce can also be prepared in advance, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights while still delivering a homemade touch.
Combining crispy, breaded chicken with the robust sauce and melted mozzarella creates a mouthwatering experience. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it hard to resist going back for seconds. The blend of ingredients not only satisfies your hunger but also pleases your palate.
Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect crispy chicken, ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying. This helps to seal in the juices and creates a golden-brown crust. If you're unsure, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it bubbles and sizzles, you’re ready to fry your chicken.
For a healthier twist, consider baking the chicken instead of frying. Simply coat the chicken breasts as instructed, then place them on a baking sheet and spray lightly with olive oil before baking. This method retains all the delicious flavors while reducing the calories, making it a win-win for health-conscious diners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
For the Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Bake with Sauce and Cheese
In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, place the fried chicken on top, and cover each piece with more sauce and mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot with pasta or a side salad.
Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken parmesan with your favorite sides!
Pairing Suggestions
Chicken Parmesan pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Classic spaghetti with marinara or a light garlic butter sauce complements the flavors of the chicken perfectly. For a healthier option, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a vibrant mixed salad.
Wine lovers can enhance the meal even further by selecting the right wine. A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio can elevate the dining experience, making your homemade chicken parmesan feel even more gourmet.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their deliciousness. Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, perfect for quick meals throughout the week.
When it comes to reheating, the oven is your best bet. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This method ensures that the chicken remains crispy and the cheese melts beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
→ What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, panko, or even ground oats as a substitute.
→ Can I use different cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique flavor.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Homemade Chicken Parmesan Dinner Recipe
Discover the delightful flavors of this Homemade Chicken Parmesan Dinner Recipe, perfect for a family meal or entertaining guests.
Created by: Lydia Barrett
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
For the Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, place the fried chicken on top, and cover each piece with more sauce and mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot with pasta or a side salad.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 35g