Easy Chicken Parmesan Dinner: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Easy Chicken Parmesan Dinner is a delightful dish that brings the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine right to your table. As someone who has always cherished the rich history of this classic meal, I find it fascinating how Chicken Parmesan has evolved from its humble beginnings in Southern Italy to become a beloved favorite worldwide. The combination of crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese creates a symphony of taste and texture that is simply irresistible.

What I love most about this Easy Chicken Parmesan Dinner is its convenience; it’s perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions. The satisfying crunch of the chicken paired with the savory sauce and creamy cheese makes every bite a joy. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to win hearts and appetites alike. Join me as we dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to deliver a delicious meal with minimal fuss!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it’s hot and ready for the chicken once we finish frying it. 2. **Prepare the Chicken Breasts**: Take the chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. 3. **Season the Chicken**: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. This will infuse the chicken with flavor right from the start.

Setting Up the Breading Station

4. **Prepare the Breading Ingredients**: In three separate shallow dishes, set up your breading station: – In the first dish, add the flour. – In the second dish, beat the eggs until well combined. – In the third dish, place the breadcrumbs mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper. 5. **Bread the Chicken**: Take one chicken breast and dredge it in the flour, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well. Repeat this process for all chicken breasts.

Cooking the Chicken

6. **Heat the Oil**: In a large skillet, pour enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan (about ¼ inch deep). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. You can test if it’s ready by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good to go. 7. **Fry the Chicken**: Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet. 8. **Drain the Chicken**: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will keep them crispy.

Assembling the Chicken Parmesan

9. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This prevents the chicken from sticking and adds flavor. 10. **Layer the Chicken**: Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the marinara sauce in the baking dish. Make sure they are evenly spaced. 11. **Add More Sauce**: Spoon additional marinara sauce over each chicken breast, ensuring they are well covered but not drowning in sauce. 12. **Cheese It Up**: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the chicken. Follow this with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that extra flavor kick.

Baking the Chicken Parmesan

13. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. 14. **Broil for Extra Crispiness**: If you like your cheese a little crispy, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving the Chicken Parmesan

15. **Garnish**: Once out of the oven, let the Chicken Parmesan rest for a few minutes. This helps the cheese set a bit. If you have fresh basil, chop some up and sprinkle it over the top for a fresh touch. 16. **Plate and Serve**: Serve the Chicken Parmesan hot, either on its own or over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta. Drizzle a little extra marinara sauce on

Conclusion:

In summary, this Easy Chicken Parmesan Dinner is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their family or guests with minimal effort. The combination of crispy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese creates a comforting dish that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it over a bed of spaghetti for a classic Italian experience, or pair it with a fresh side salad for a lighter option. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and make it your own! Whether you stick to the traditional method or add your personal twist, I’d love to hear about your experience. Don’t forget to share your photos and thoughts on social media or in the comments below. Let’s spread the love for this Easy Chicken Parmesan Dinner together! Happy cooking!

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