Chicken Parmesan(Quick, For The Working Woman)
A quick, flavorful Chicken Parmesan dish featuring crispy breaded chicken, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash chicken breasts.
- Dip chicken in beaten egg, then coat in Italian bread crumbs seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic salt.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry breaded chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and place in a baking pan.
- Spread spaghetti sauce over each piece of chicken and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Top with shredded Mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve over a bed of buttered noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For an added flavor boost, marinate the chicken breasts in Italian dressing for 30 minutes before breading. If you prefer a lighter option, try using whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch. You can substitute the Ragu spaghetti sauce with homemade marinara if you have the time, or even use pesto for a unique twist. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Parmesan over a bed of buttered noodles for a classic touch. A side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad would complement the dish nicely. For a comforting variation, consider pairing it with creamy garlic mashed potatoes. This dish also pairs beautifully with Chicken Pesto Pizza for a delightful Italian-inspired meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring the cheese remains melty. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the chicken soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Parmesan(Quick, For The Working Woman) contains roughly 121 calories, with 7g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1967mg per serving (86% 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 frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps the breading adhere better. If in a hurry, you can use the microwave's defrost setting, but be cautious not to start cooking the chicken.
What can I substitute for Mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have Mozzarella cheese on hand, you can easily substitute it with provolone or even a blend of Italian cheeses. For a stronger flavor, consider using fontina or gouda. Just remember to adjust the amount based on the cheese's melting properties.
Is it possible to make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and bread it in advance, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the dish and freeze it before baking. Just ensure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
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).