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


  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Enjoy a comforting Chicken Parmesan with tender, breaded chicken breasts smothered in marinara sauce and melted cheese. Baked to perfection, this classic dish is ideal for pairing with pasta or a fresh salad.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Pound to an even thickness of about ½ inch.
  3. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
  4. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  5. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
  6. In a large skillet, heat enough olive oil to cover the bottom (about ¼ inch deep) over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  7. Fry the breaded chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Do this in batches if necessary.
  8. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  9. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  10. Place fried chicken breasts on top of the marinara sauce.
  11. Spoon additional marinara sauce over each chicken breast.
  12. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
  13. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  14. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for a crispy cheese topping, watching closely to prevent burning.
  15. Let the Chicken Parmesan rest for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired.
  16. Serve hot, either on its own or over pasta, with extra marinara sauce drizzled on top.

Notes

  • For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian dressing for a few hours before breading.
  • You can substitute the marinara sauce with your favorite pasta sauce for a different twist.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes