Description
Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Skillet
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (seasoned or plain)
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Bread the Chicken:
Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip into beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
Sear each chicken breast for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Pour marinara sauce evenly over the chicken.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with dried basil and oregano, if desired.
Serve hot with pasta, rice, or a side salad.
Tips:
For extra crispiness, broil the skillet for 2-3 minutes after baking.
Substitute marinara with homemade tomato sauce for a fresh flavor.
Pair with garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
#EasyComfortFood #CheesyDelight
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Skillet. First, ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness by gently pounding them to about 1/2 inch thick; this promotes even cooking. Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs mixed with half of your grated Parmesan. This ensures a flavorful, crispy crust. When searing, do not overcrowd the skillet; work in batches if needed to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust without steaming the chicken. After adding sauce and cheese, place the skillet in the center of the oven for consistent heat circulation.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic Italian meal, serve it over a bed of spaghetti or linguine. For a lighter option, a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus are excellent choices. Don’t forget a side of warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a low-carb alternative, serve alongside zucchini noodles or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this dish by pounding chicken for even thickness, breading it in a three-step station (flour, egg, Parmesan-breadcrumb mix), and searing until golden. Transfer to an oven-safe skillet, top with marinara and cheeses, and bake at 375°F until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great substitute. They may require a slightly longer baking time due to their higher fat content. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always check that your marinara sauce is certified gluten-free.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain texture.
My cheese is browning too quickly. What should I do?
If the cheese is browning before the chicken is done, loosely tent the skillet with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it on a parchment-lined tray for up to 4 hours before cooking. For best results, assemble and bake just before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the pound: Not pounding the chicken leads to uneven cooking, with some parts drying out while others remain undercooked.
- Wet breading station: Using one hand for wet ingredients and one for dry prevents a clumpy, messy breading process.
- Moving the chicken too soon: Let the chicken sear undisturbed for the full 2-3 minutes to develop a proper crust that won’t stick.
- Using a non-oven-safe skillet: Always confirm your skillet is oven-safe to avoid handle damage or dangerous transfers.
- Overcrowding the skillet: Crowding lowers the pan’s temperature, causing the chicken to steam instead of sear.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Skillet is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal, combining crispy, herbaceous chicken with rich marinara and melted cheese. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality dinner with minimal cleanup. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for any weeknight or casual gathering. Enjoy the delicious, cheesy results of your simple yet skillful cooking.