The moment you sink your teeth into a plate of Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm, it’s like a warm hug from your Italian grandma. Imagine tender chicken, golden-brown and topped with gooey, melted cheese, all swimming in a rich marinara sauce that practically dances on your taste buds. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to twirl around the kitchen in joy—preferably while wearing an apron that says “Chef of the Year” because let’s be real, you’re about to earn that title.
Every time I whip up this Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm, I can’t help but think back to family gatherings where we’d gather around the table with laughter and stories flowing as freely as the wine. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, this dish is perfect for making memories (and maybe some delightful food comas). Trust me when I say, once you try this recipe, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again.
Why You'll Love This Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm
- This incredible Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly but feel free to adjust based on your hungry crowd.
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Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm garlic cloves to pack a flavorful punch in your marinara sauce.
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Italian Breadcrumbs: These provide a crispy coating; look for seasoned ones for added flavor.
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Marinara Sauce: Store-bought works great; just ensure it has no added sugar for a more natural flavor.
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Mozzarella Cheese: Use fresh mozzarella if possible; it melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh for maximum flavor—your taste buds will thank you!
For the Sauce:
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness without sacrificing umami flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and spray it with some nonstick cooking spray so that cleanup is smoother than your favorite dance moves after dinner.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Season those beautiful chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Feel free to channel your inner chef and sprinkle in some Italian herbs if you’re feeling fancy!
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in flour first (for better adhesion), then dip into beaten eggs before coating them generously with breadcrumbs. Don’t be shy! Make sure they’re well-covered like they just got back from a day at the beach.
Step 4: Bake Away
Place the breaded chicken breasts on your prepared baking dish and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and look golden-brown.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Once baked, remove them from the oven (be careful not to burn those precious fingers). Spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken and top generously with mozzarella and parmesan cheese—because more cheese is always better!
Step 6: Final Bake
Return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned. Your house is about to smell heavenly!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Serve this beauty alongside spaghetti or a fresh salad—and don’t forget to take lots of photos because this Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm deserves its own social media account!
Now go ahead; grab that fork because you’ve officially earned yourself a delicious bite! Enjoy every cheesy moment!
You Must Know About Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm
- This showstopping Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken first on medium-high heat until golden brown. While the chicken cooks, boil your pasta and prepare the sauce simultaneously for maximum efficiency. This method ensures everything comes together perfectly without any last-minute scrambles.
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to customize your Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm by swapping out the cheese for mozzarella or provolone. Experiment with herbs like basil or oregano for added depth, or add some sautéed spinach or mushrooms to elevate the dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that cheesy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm
- This professional-quality Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
When I first made this Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm for my friends, they devoured it within minutes! Their enthusiastic compliments made me realize this recipe was a keeper, one that never fails to bring smiles around the table.
FAQs
What is Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm?
Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm is a delightful dish that combines breaded chicken breasts with marinara sauce and melted cheese. This popular Italian-American recipe is loved for its simplicity and rich flavors. The chicken is typically pan-fried or baked until golden brown, then topped with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s often served over pasta or with a crusty piece of bread, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
How do you make Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm?
To make Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm, start by seasoning chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge them in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs. Fry the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Next, place the fried chicken in a baking dish, cover it with marinara sauce, and top generously with mozzarella cheese. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve this delicious dish hot alongside your favorite pasta or salad for a complete meal.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce for Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm?
Absolutely! Using store-bought marinara sauce can save time when preparing Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm. There are many high-quality brands available that offer great flavor. However, if you have the time, making homemade marinara can add an extra layer of freshness to the dish. Just simmer tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and olive oil together for a delicious homemade touch that elevates your chicken parm.
What side dishes pair well with Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm?
Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Classic options include a fresh garden salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Additionally, roasted vegetables or pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs complement the flavors well. For something lighter, consider serving it with steamed broccoli or green beans to balance out the richness of the dish.
Conclusion
In summary, Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm is a beloved dish that combines tender chicken with rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese. Its straightforward preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. By using quality ingredients and simple techniques, you can create a comforting meal everyone will enjoy. Don’t hesitate to customize your Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm with different cheeses or sauces to suit your taste!
Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm is a comforting Italian-American classic that features crispy breaded chicken topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress with its irresistible flavors and simple preparation. Get ready for a delightful culinary experience that will have your family asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 2 cups marinara sauce (preferably sugar-free)
- 1.5 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Place the breaded chicken in the baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
- Remove from oven, spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, and top generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
