Chicken Parmigiano
Juicy breaded chicken breasts topped with flavorful tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with classic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dip chicken breasts in beaten egg, then coat with Italian bread crumbs.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
- Turn chicken over and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until tender.
- Meanwhile, combine tomato sauce, oregano, sugar, and onion salt in a saucepan.
- Heat the sauce to boiling, stirring frequently.
- Pour the hot sauce over the baked chicken.
- Top each piece with mozzarella cheese.
- Return to the oven to melt the cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of the Progresso Italian bread crumbs. You can also add garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, use grilled chicken instead of baked, and opt for low-fat mozzarella cheese. This chicken dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Parmigiano with a side of spaghetti tossed in marinara sauce or a light garlic butter sauce. A simple green salad with Italian dressing complements the dish nicely. For a hearty twist, consider making a Chicken Parmesan Hoagie by placing the chicken on a toasted sub roll and adding extra marinara and cheese.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions; just cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Parmigiano contains roughly 612 calories, with 22g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (50% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 677mg per serving (29% 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 be sure to thaw them completely before starting the recipe to ensure even cooking. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if they are still partially frozen.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella cheese, you can use provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile. For a non-dairy option, try a vegan mozzarella substitute that melts well, or simply omit cheese for a lighter version.
Can I make Chicken Parmigiano ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Assemble the dish without baking it, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
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).