Image Source from SimpleRecipees

Simple Chicken Parmesan Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners

When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity and taste are key. Enter Chicken Parmesan, a beloved Italian-American classic that is as straightforward to prepare as it is delightful to eat. This recipe brings together juicy chicken breasts, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey cheese for a meal that is sure to please the whole family. Best of all, it can be on the table in under an hour, making it the perfect solution for busy evenings.

Ingredients

For this simple Chicken Parmesan recipe, you will need:

• 2 large chicken breasts (or 4 smaller ones)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Olive oil, for frying
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) or 400°F. While the oven heats, take the chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of cling film. Use a rolling pin or meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1 cm. This ensures even cooking and helps avoid dryness. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station

Set up your dredging station by placing the flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, oregano, and garlic powder in three separate shallow bowls. This will make the coating process straightforward and tidy.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Coat each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off, before finally pressing it into the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure that the chicken is well-coated for a crispy finish.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a large frying pan, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts, frying for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. If your pan isn’t large enough, you may need to work in batches. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a baking dish.

Step 5: Assemble with Sauce and Cheese

Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the fried chicken breasts. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top, followed by an even layer of shredded mozzarella.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. If you fancy a slightly crispier topping, consider using the grill function for the last few minutes of cooking.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once baked, remove the Chicken Parmesan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve your delicious creation hot with a side of pasta, salad, or crusty bread.

Tips for Success

• Marinara Sauce: While store-bought sauce is a time-saver, a homemade marinara can elevate the dish. If you have time, use fresh garlic, herbs, and tomatoes to create a vibrant sauce.

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different cheeses like provolone or fontina for added depth of flavour.

• Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just adjust the cooking time if baking from cold.

Conclusion

This simple Chicken Parmesan recipe is perfect for a hassle-free weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavour. With its crispy coating, savoury sauce, and melted cheese, it is sure to become a regular feature on your dinner table. Give it a try, and enjoy cooking a dish that brings a taste of Italy right into your home!

No items listed in the response.