Microwave Chicken Parmesan
A quick and cheesy microwave chicken Parmesan featuring tender breaded chicken topped with marinara and melted mozzarella, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner for 4 to 6 servings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt in a 2-cup measure.
- Cover with wax paper and microwave on High (100%) for 2 minutes; stir.
- Reduce power to Medium (50%) and microwave for 5 minutes, stirring once; set aside.
- Mix corn flake crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley flakes.
- Dip chicken breasts in beaten egg, then in crumb mixture.
- Place in an 8 x 12-inch or 10-inch square casserole dish.
- Cover with wax paper.
- Microwave at Medium-High (70%) until chicken is tender, 9 to 14 minutes, rearranging after half the cooking time.
- Pour sauce over chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded Mozzarella cheese over chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Microwave at Medium-high (70%) until cheese melts and sauce is hot, 2 to 5 1/2 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of corn flake crumbs. If you prefer a lower-carb option, almond flour can be a great substitute. Additionally, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce can enhance the flavor profile. Make sure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for consistent cooking, and feel free to experiment with different Italian herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Microwave Chicken Parmesan over a bed of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Fresh Vegetables In Garlic Sauce With Pasta for a nutritious side. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing also complements the dish well, adding freshness and crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Chicken Parmesan contains roughly 72 calories, with 7g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% 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?
It's best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely beforehand to ensure they cook properly in the microwave.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply assemble and microwave as directed. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep.
What can I substitute for Mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have Mozzarella on hand, you can use provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a slightly different flavor. Just keep in mind that the melting characteristics may vary slightly.
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).