Name: Best Chicken Parm
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts; All-purpose flour; Eggs; Italian-style breadcrumbs; Marinara sauce; Shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil leaves; Olive oil

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If you are searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than the best chicken parm. This classic Italian-American dish delivers a satisfying combination of crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Perfectly suited for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends, this recipe is both easy to make and incredibly flavorful. In just under an hour, you can create a delightful meal that will impress everyone at your table. Whether served with pasta or a fresh salad on the side, each bite offers a burst of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing in delight. The simplicity of this dish makes it ideal for novice cooks while still being sophisticated enough to satisfy seasoned chefs. Get ready to dive into the world of homemade deliciousness as we explore how to make the best chicken parm.

Why You’ll Love This Best Chicken Parm

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Best Chicken Parm

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for dredging the chicken before breading; ensure it’s sifted for a smooth coating
Eggs: Use two large eggs to create an adhesive layer for the breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs: Choose Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor; panko can also be used for extra crunch
Marinara Sauce: A good quality store-bought or homemade sauce enhances the overall flavor profile
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole milk mozzarella for a creamier texture when melted
Fresh Basil Leaves: Adding fresh basil will brighten up your dish with aromatic flavors

For the Sauce:

Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds richness to the sauce

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Best Chicken Parm

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, prepare your baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken

Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them gently until they are about half an inch thick. This ensures even cooking.

Step 3: Dredge Chicken

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with dried oregano. Dredge each chicken breast in flour first, then dip it in egg before finally coating it in breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, carefully place breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides—about four minutes per side.

Step 5: Assemble Dish

Place cooked chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece of chicken and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake

Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for about twenty minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
Breading Technique: Press down gently on the breadcrumbs after coating each piece of chicken to ensure better adhesion during frying
Topping Options: Feel free to add grated Parmesan cheese atop your mozzarella for an extra layer of flavor

How to Serve Best Chicken Parm

This Best Chicken Parm is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can prepare components like the chicken and sauce in advance. Cook the chicken and let it cool for about 30 minutes. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days.
Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken parm in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.

Suggestions for Best Chicken Parm

Avoid Overcooking the Chicken

Overcooking is one of the most common mistakes when making the best chicken parm. This leads to dry, tough meat that lacks flavor. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer and cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Additionally, consider pounding the chicken to an even thickness before cooking; this ensures uniform cooking. Remember that the chicken will continue to cook while resting, so remove it from heat just before it reaches the desired doneness. Juicy chicken is essential for a delicious dish.

Choosing the Wrong Cheese

Selecting cheese is crucial for achieving the best chicken parm. Many people opt for pre-shredded cheese, but it often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Instead, choose fresh mozzarella or quality provolone. Fresh mozzarella offers a creamy texture and rich flavor that elevate your dish. When using grated Parmesan, ensure it’s real cheese for authentic taste. Layering different cheeses can enhance flavor complexity and create a delightful crust on top of your chicken parm.

Skipping the Marinara Sauce

Using a store-bought marinara sauce might save time, but it can compromise the overall flavor of your best chicken parm. Homemade marinara adds depth and freshness that jarred sauces typically lack. Start with quality canned tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs to create a rich sauce that complements your dish perfectly. Simmering the sauce allows flavors to meld together beautifully. A well-prepared marinara elevates your chicken parm from ordinary to extraordinary.

Neglecting Proper Assembly

The assembly process is just as important as cooking each component of your best chicken parm correctly. Layering ingredients in the right order ensures optimal flavor and texture. Start with a base of marinara sauce in your baking dish, followed by the cooked chicken breasts topped with more sauce and cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for added freshness and color. Proper assembly not only enhances presentation but also ensures even melting of cheese and distribution of sauce across each serving.

FAQs

What is the best way to reheat leftover Chicken Parm?

Reheating leftover best chicken parm can be tricky if you want to preserve its original flavor and texture. The best method is to use an oven rather than a microwave because microwaving can make the breading soggy and rubbery. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken parm on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture while reheating for about 20 minutes or until heated through without overcooking.

Can I make Chicken Parm ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components of your best chicken parm ahead of time! You can bread and fry the chicken in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. You can also prepare marinara sauce ahead of time; it keeps well in both the fridge and freezer. When ready to serve, simply assemble your dish by layering prepped ingredients together and baking them until bubbly and golden brown.

What side dishes pair well with Chicken Parm?

When serving the best chicken parm, consider pairing it with sides that complement its flavors without overpowering them. Classic options include spaghetti tossed in olive oil or garlic butter or a fresh green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for acidity balance. Garlic bread is another favorite choice; it’s perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce left on your plate. These sides enhance your meal experience while keeping focus on delicious chicken parm.

How do I make Chicken Parm gluten-free?

To make gluten-free best chicken parm, substitute traditional bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well; this includes checking sauces and cheeses used in your recipe. Additionally, you can use corn starch or gluten-free flour for dredging before frying if you’re looking for an extra crispy coating on your chicken.

Conclusion for Best Chicken Parm

Creating the best chicken parm requires attention to detail at every step—from selecting high-quality ingredients to proper cooking techniques and assembly methods. Avoid common pitfalls like overcooking or using low-quality cheese for optimal results. Making homemade marinara sauce significantly enhances flavor while ensuring that each layer boasts deliciousness is essential for an unforgettable meal experience. Whether you’re serving it alongside pasta or salad, this classic dish remains a crowd favorite due to its comforting flavors and enticing presentation—an excellent choice any night of the week!