Chicken Parmesan Ii
Savory chicken breasts smothered in tomato‑garlic sauce and melted cheeses—an Italian‑style comfort dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll each chicken breast in beaten egg, lightly salt, then coat with bread crumbs.
- Fry chicken breasts in oil until medium brown; they do not need to be fully cooked yet.
- Drain on paper towels and arrange in a 9×13×2‑inch baking pan.
- Heat the tomato sauce in a saucepan.
- Add basil, crushed garlic, salt, and butter to the sauce.
- Simmer over low heat for 15 minutes.
- Pour the seasoned sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are covered.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over each breast.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil from the pan.
- Top each breast with shredded mozzarella cheese and return to the oven uncovered.
- Bake until the cheese melts and bubbles, about 10 minutes.
- Serve hot with spaghetti, linguine, or potatoes au gratin.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or thyme to the bread crumbs. If you want a lighter version, try using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. You can also substitute the tomato sauce with a homemade marinara or a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a kick. If you prefer a crispier crust, bake the chicken for a few minutes after frying before adding the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Parmesan hot with a side of spaghetti or linguine to soak up the delicious sauce. Garlic bread and a fresh salad also make excellent accompaniments. For a twist, pair with Chicken With Angel Hair Pasta to create a delightful Italian-inspired meal. Don't forget to sprinkle some fresh basil on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, but be cautious not to overcook the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Parmesan Ii contains roughly 774 calories, with 22g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (49% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1161mg per serving (50% 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 make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just cover the pan tightly with foil. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute as it offers a similar salty and nutty flavor. Nutritional yeast can also be used for a dairy-free option, providing a cheesy taste without the cheese.
Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Parmesan before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. For best results, reheat from frozen, adding a little extra time to the baking process.
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).