If you’re looking for a comforting dish that never fails to impress, the best chicken parm is a top contender. This classic Italian-American recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in crispy breadcrumbs and topped with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a dish that brings together wonderful flavors and textures, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. In this article, I’ll guide you through the simple steps to create this beloved meal right in your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have a satisfying plate of chicken parmesan ready in no time. Whether served over pasta or with a side salad, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. So roll up your sleeves and prepare to indulge in one of the best comfort foods around!

Why You’ll Love This Best Chicken Parm

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

this recipe

Ingredients for Best Chicken Parm

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
• Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor or plain ones if you prefer to season yourself
• Marinara Sauce: A good-quality store-bought or homemade marinara sauce will elevate your dish significantly
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is ideal for melty texture; however, pre-shredded cheese works well too

For the Sauce:

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness; use it for frying the chicken

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Best Chicken Parm

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Prepare Breading Station

In three separate bowls, set up breading stations: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, another with beaten eggs, and the last one with breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast first into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, carefully place breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Transfer fried chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece of chicken. Top each breast with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place in preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Crispy Coating: For extra crunchiness, double dip your chicken in egg before breading

How to Serve Best Chicken Parm

This Best Chicken Parm is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken cutlets and sauce in advance. Coat the chicken in breadcrumbs and refrigerate for up to two hours before cooking. The sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for three days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Storing: Store leftover Best Chicken Parm in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers, where they can last up to three months.
• Reheating: Reheat chicken parm in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Place it on a baking sheet covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, ensuring it retains its crispy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power for about two minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

Suggestions for Best Chicken Parm

Avoid Overcooking the Chicken

Overcooking can lead to dry, tough chicken, ruining your dish. To ensure juicy results, use a meat thermometer. Cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This helps maintain moisture and flavor. Additionally, consider pounding the chicken to even thickness before cooking. This ensures that the entire piece cooks uniformly, preventing any undercooked or overcooked spots. Remember to let the chicken rest after cooking for about five minutes. This resting time allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing both texture and flavor.

Don’t Skimp on Seasoning

Proper seasoning is crucial for achieving the best chicken parm flavor. Start by seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper before breading it. You can enhance the taste further by adding Italian herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil into the breadcrumbs. If you forget this step, your dish may end up bland and unappealing. For added depth of flavor, consider marinating your chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This extra step will elevate your meal significantly.

Use Quality Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients plays a significant role in how delicious your best chicken parm turns out. Opt for fresh mozzarella instead of processed cheese; it melts beautifully and provides rich flavors. Additionally, choose a high-quality marinara sauce or make your own from scratch using fresh tomatoes and herbs. Using inferior ingredients might save you money but can diminish the overall quality of your dish. Investing in good-quality components will result in a richer, more satisfying meal that truly shines.

Don’t Forget About Presentation

Presentation matters when serving up your best chicken parm. A visually appealing dish enhances the dining experience and makes it more enjoyable. First, carefully slice the chicken after cooking to showcase its juicy interior. Serve it on a plate with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top for color contrast. You can also pair it with a side of pasta or a fresh salad to create an inviting plate that looks as good as it tastes.

FAQs

What is the best way to reheat leftover chicken parm?

Reheating leftover chicken parm can be tricky if you want to maintain its texture and flavor. The best method involves using an oven rather than a microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep moisture in while preventing over-browning. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through without drying out. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious leftovers that taste almost as good as freshly made.

Can I use boneless skinless thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless skinless thighs are a great alternative to breasts for making the best chicken parm. Thighs tend to be juicier due to their higher fat content, which adds more flavor to your dish. They also tend to remain tender even if cooked slightly longer than recommended compared to breasts that can dry out quickly if overcooked. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly since thighs may take slightly longer than breasts based on their thickness.

What type of cheese is best for chicken parmesan?

When creating the best chicken parm, fresh mozzarella is considered one of the top choices because it melts beautifully and offers a creamy texture that enhances the overall taste of the dish. You can also blend in some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and a delightful crispy topping when baked together with mozzarella. Other options include provolone or fontina cheese if you want something different; however, sticking with traditional choices will give you that classic Italian flavor profile most people love.

How do I make homemade marinara sauce?

Making homemade marinara sauce is simple and far superior in taste compared to store-bought versions! Start by sautéing minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant but not browned—this typically takes about one minute over medium heat. Add crushed tomatoes (either canned or fresh) along with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs like basil and oregano according to your preference for seasoning levels—let simmer for about 20-30 minutes until thickened slightly while stirring occasionally!

Conclusion

In summary, mastering the art of making the best chicken parm involves several key steps: avoiding overcooking by using precise temperature checks, ensuring proper seasoning throughout each layer of preparation, selecting high-quality ingredients like fresh mozzarella and homemade marinara sauce, and focusing on presentation when serving your dish. By following these guidelines closely along with being mindful during preparation processes such as reheating leftovers correctly or substituting meats wisely—you’ll create an impressive meal that impresses friends and family alike! Enjoy every bite as you savor this classic comfort food at home!

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Best Chicken Parm

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Best Chicken Parm, where crispy, golden-breaded chicken meets rich marinara and gooey mozzarella cheese. This beloved Italian-American dish is not only quick to prepare but also delivers an explosion of taste that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, our recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor. With just a few key ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. Serve it over pasta, with a fresh salad, or alongside crusty bread for a comforting dining experience that keeps everyone coming back for more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cloves fresh garlic
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil for frying

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
3. Coat each chicken breast in flour, dip into egg wash, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Place fried chicken in the baking dish, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (180g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: - For extra crunchiness, double-dip your chicken in egg before breading.- Customize flavor by adding Italian herbs to the breadcrumb mixture or using different cheeses like provolone or fontina.