One-Pan Chicken Parmesan

Name: One-Pan Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian); 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Optional: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Posted on February 4, 2025

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Have you ever craved a comforting dish that combines crispy breaded chicken with rich marinara and gooey cheese? One-Pan Chicken Parmesan is the answer! This delightful recipe not only brings together wonderful flavors but also presents a feast for the eyes. Picture tender chicken breasts coated in crunchy breadcrumbs, smothered in savory tomato sauce and bubbling mozzarella cheese.

This dish is perfect for family dinners or when entertaining guests. It captures the essence of Italian cuisine while being incredibly simple to prepare. Imagine serving this vibrant meal that not only looks impressive but also fills your home with mouthwatering aromas. Get ready to indulge in a flavor experience that will leave you wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Chicken Parmesan

Easy Cleanup: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and convenience. With everything cooked in one pan, you’ll save time on cleanup and enjoy more moments around the table with your loved ones. No endless washing of dishes means more time to savor your meal.

Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a mouthful of flavors thanks to the combination of tender chicken, zesty marinara sauce, and melted cheese. The harmonious blend of seasonings elevates this classic dish into something truly special that will impress even the pickiest eaters.

Quick Preparation: Perfect for busy weeknights, this One-Pan Chicken Parmesan can be ready in about 30 minutes! The straightforward steps ensure you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your delicious creation.

Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over spaghetti for a hearty meal or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option. You can easily customize this dish to fit various dietary preferences or pair it with your favorite sides.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for One-Pan Chicken Parmesan

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for this recipe; they should be uniform in size for even cooking.
Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for coating the chicken; they provide a crispy texture.
Eggs: Beaten eggs help breadcrumbs adhere better to the chicken.

For the Sauce:

Marinara Sauce: Choose a good-quality store-bought marinara or homemade sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts beautifully on top of the chicken; avoid pre-shredded options if possible.

End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”

How to Make One-Pan Chicken Parmesan

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your dish cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown finish.

Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and pepper. Then dip them into beaten eggs before coating them generously with breadcrumbs for an irresistible crunch.

Sear the Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown.

Add Marinara Sauce: Once seared, pour marinara sauce generously over each piece of chicken. Ensure they are well covered as this adds flavor and moisture during baking.

Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese liberally over the sauced chicken breasts. The cheese will melt beautifully as it bakes.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (75°C).

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra 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:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality tomatoes make a significant difference in flavor; consider making your own marinara if you have time!

Pound Your Chicken Evenly: For consistent cooking, pound each breast to an even thickness before breading; this helps prevent dryness while ensuring even cooking throughout.

Avoid Overcrowding Your Pan: Give each piece enough space while searing so they cook evenly without steaming; cook in batches if necessary.

Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing your baked chicken parmesan to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps keep it juicy; patience pays off!

By following these tips, you’ll create an unforgettable One-Pan Chicken Parmesan that everyone will love!

Serving Suggestions

This One-Pan Chicken Parmesan is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread makes a delightful accompaniment to One-Pan Chicken Parmesan. The crispy, buttery slices provide a satisfying contrast to the tender chicken and rich tomato sauce. You can prepare it quickly by spreading garlic butter on sliced baguettes or Italian bread, then toasting them in the oven until golden brown. This side not only enhances the meal but also helps soak up any extra sauce.

Steamed Vegetables

Serve your One-Pan Chicken Parmesan with a medley of steamed vegetables for a healthy touch. Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add vibrant colors and nutrients to your plate. Lightly steaming these vegetables preserves their natural flavors while providing a crunch that complements the savory chicken. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle some salt for added flavor.

Pasta Salad

A refreshing pasta salad offers a cool contrast to the warm One-Pan Chicken Parmesan. Combine cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette for a light dish that balances out your meal. This side can be made ahead of time, making it convenient for busy weeknights while adding a delightful twist to your dining experience.

Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad pairs beautifully with One-Pan Chicken Parmesan. The crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, and grated parmesan cheese create a perfect accompaniment to the heartiness of the chicken dish. This salad brings freshness to the table and enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal.

FAQs

Can I make One-Pan Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare One-Pan Chicken Parmesan ahead of time. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve it, gently reheat in the oven until heated through for best results.

What should I serve with One-Pan Chicken Parmesan?

One-Pan Chicken Parmesan pairs well with numerous sides such as garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. These options complement the rich flavors of the dish while adding variety to your meal.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional for One-Pan Chicken Parmesan, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for added flavor. Mixing different cheeses can create a delightful blend that elevates your dish even further.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! One-Pan Chicken Parmesan is excellent for meal prepping. You can portion it out into individual containers after cooking for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat when ready to enjoy!

Conclusion

In summary, One-Pan Chicken Parmesan is not only an easy-to-make dish but also incredibly delicious and versatile. Pairing it with sides like garlic bread or fresh salads enhances both flavor and nutrition. Prepare it ahead of time for convenience, making it an ideal option for busy nights or gatherings. Don’t hesitate to try different cheeses or customize your sides based on personal preferences; this will keep meals exciting and enjoyable every time you serve this classic recipe! Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful meal with family and friends!