20 Minute Chicken Parmesan
A quick and flavorful chicken Parmesan featuring tender breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish combines crispy chicken with cheesy, savory goodness that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Using the palm of your hand, flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, then into the seasoned bread crumbs to coat.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the margarine or butter and brown the chicken on both sides.
- Add the Prego spaghetti sauce to the skillet with the chicken.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
- Cover again and simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using whole wheat bread crumbs or almond flour instead of seasoned bread crumbs. You can also swap out the margarine for olive oil for a healthier fat choice. If you're short on time, pre-cooked chicken can be used; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For added flavor, try seasoning the chicken with Italian herbs before breading. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Minestrone Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Parmesan over a bed of spaghetti or alongside a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Garlic bread is a fantastic side to soak up the sauce. For a creamy touch, consider pairing it with Fettucini With Creamy Chicken. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant finish, enhancing both the flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes for a crispier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 20 Minute Chicken Parmesan contains roughly 1306 calories, with 18g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 96g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value) and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1320mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be a great alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Chicken Parmesan gluten-free, substitute the seasoned bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure that the spaghetti sauce you use is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dish without any dietary concerns.
What can I use instead of Prego spaghetti sauce?
If you don't have Prego spaghetti sauce on hand, you can use any store-bought marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce as a substitute. Adding extra herbs like oregano and basil can enhance the flavor. For a twist, try a roasted red pepper sauce for a unique taste that complements the chicken well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).