Description
Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients:
Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
Tomato Sauce:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Topping:
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
Sear chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Tomato Sauce:
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté the onion until soft (about 3 minutes).
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Let simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Assemble the Dish:
Nestle the seared chicken breasts into the tomato sauce.
Spoon some sauce over the chicken to coat it.
4. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the chicken with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake:
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
Serve hot with pasta, rice, or a side salad.
Enjoy this comforting, cheesy classic!
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect Chicken Parmesan, follow these detailed steps. First, ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness by placing them between plastic wrap and gently pounding them to about 1/2-inch thick. This guarantees even cooking. When searing, do not move the chicken for the first 3-4 minutes to achieve a proper golden-brown crust. For the sauce, letting it simmer for the full 10 minutes is crucial to develop depth of flavor and thicken the consistency. When assembling, ensure each chicken piece is nestled into and coated with sauce to keep it moist during baking. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached 165°F before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This classic dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of cooked spaghetti or fettuccine to soak up the extra sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables like zucchini and asparagus. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is essential for mopping up your plate. For a complete Italian feast, start with a simple antipasto platter or a minestrone soup.
How-to Summary
To make Chicken Parmesan: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness, season, and sear until golden. Prepare a quick tomato sauce with onions, garlic, and herbs in the same pan. Nestle the seared chicken into the sauce, top generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and bake at 400°F until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and offer a richer flavor. Adjust baking time as needed, as thighs may cook slightly faster.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
The recipe as written is naturally gluten-free. Always check your seasoning blends and crushed tomato cans to ensure no gluten-containing additives are present.
Can I prepare Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
You can sear the chicken and make the sauce up to a day ahead. Store separately in the fridge. Assemble with cheese and bake just before serving for the best texture.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
After searing the chicken and making the sauce, transfer everything to a baking dish before adding the cheese and baking.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the cheese texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the pounding step: Uneven chicken leads to dry, overcooked edges and undercooked centers.
- Overcrowding the skillet when searing: This steams the chicken instead of creating a flavorful crust.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: It contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly. Shred your own mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Overbaking: This dries out the chicken. Use a meat thermometer and remove at 165°F.
- Adding cheese to cold sauce: Ensure the sauce is hot when you add the chicken and cheese so baking time is consistent.
Conclusion
Mastering Chicken Parmesan is about perfecting a few key techniques: preparing the chicken, building a flavorful sauce, and balancing baking time. This comforting, crowd-pleasing dish is versatile for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process and the delicious, cheesy results!