Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish featuring crispy breaded chicken breasts smothered in rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The combination of savory flavors and textures makes it a beloved meal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. Perfect for those who enjoy comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dip chicken in Italian dressing, then coat with bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350° for 30 minutes.
- Add a layer of Mozzarella cheese during the last 3 to 5 minutes of cooking.
- Cook the jar of spaghetti sauce over low heat.
- Add the whole peeled onion and peeled clove of garlic to the sauce.
- Remove the onion and garlic when the sauce is finished cooking.
- Cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions.
- Prepare the plate with chicken, sauce, and spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for a few hours or overnight. If you don't have Progresso bread crumbs, any seasoned bread crumbs will work. You can also substitute chicken breasts with thinly sliced chicken thighs for a juicier result. For a lighter version, consider using grilled chicken instead of baked. This recipe pairs beautifully with Chicken Cacciatore.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Parmesan over a bed of spaghetti noodles, topped with the warm spaghetti sauce. A side salad and garlic bread make excellent accompaniments. For a lighter meal, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables or a fresh caprese salad. This dish also pairs well with a glass of red wine for a complete Italian dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave it, but the oven will keep the breading crispier. If freezing, wrap tightly and consume within 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Parmesan contains roughly 617 calories, with 24g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (52% of the Daily Value), protein (49% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1685mg per serving (73% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, while mozzarella is traditional, you can use provolone or fontina cheese for a different flavor. Parmesan can also be sprinkled on top for added richness. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to melt the cheese properly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Chicken Parmesan gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the coating. Ensure that the spaghetti sauce and noodles are also gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free pasta options that work well with this dish.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld and saves you time on the day you plan to serve it. Just ensure to cook it thoroughly before serving.
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).