Chicken Parmesana
Chicken Parmesana features tender boneless chicken topped with melted mozzarella cheese, ham, and flavorful spaghetti sauce, baked to perfection. This hearty dish combines savory, cheesy, and tangy flavors, making it ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken pieces in a baking pan.
- Top each piece with a slice of mozzarella cheese and a slice of ham.
- Pour spaghetti sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with oregano.
- Bake in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 30 to 45 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve over cooked pasta.
- Enjoy with salad and bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, you can substitute the ham with prosciutto for a richer flavor. If you prefer a lighter dish, try using grilled chicken instead of baked. Make sure to use fresh oregano for a more vibrant taste. If you have leftover spaghetti sauce, it can be used in other Italian recipes or for dipping breadsticks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Parmesana over a bed of freshly cooked pasta for a hearty meal. A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette complements this dish well. For an Italian twist, pair it with garlic bread or roasted vegetables. This dish also pairs beautifully with Simple Chicken Parmesan for a delightful Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chicken Parmesana in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave it in intervals to avoid drying out. You can also freeze it for longer storage, but the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Parmesana contains roughly 557 calories, with 25g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (214% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (159% of the Daily Value), and calcium (137% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 550mg per serving (24% 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, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, part-skim mozzarella works too. Experimenting with different cheeses can enhance your Chicken Parmesana experience.
What pasta works best with this recipe?
While any pasta can complement Chicken Parmesana, spaghetti or penne are popular choices due to their ability to hold sauce well. You can also try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. For a unique twist, consider using Pasta With Cauliflower for a lighter meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Chicken Parmesana a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
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).