Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan Comfort Dish 🍗🧀✨
1. Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate guide for making a mouthwatering chicken parmesan that will fill your home with comforting aromas. This baked chicken dish combines crispy coating, juicy chicken, and cheesy goodness, making it a perfect dinner for family or friends. Whether you’re searching for a delicious chicken parmigiana recipe or a satisfying cheesy chicken casserole, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
2. Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
For those eager to explore more chicken recipes, check out our creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta or the hearty lasagna soup options for cozy meals.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt and pepper. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well.
Sear the Chicken
In a large ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the breaded chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step helps to develop a crispy crust.
Bake with Sauce and Cheese
Pour marinara sauce over the seared chicken breasts. Top each with shredded mozzarella cheese. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot. Pair this cheesy chicken masterpiece with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad for the perfect meal.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Cheesy Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. To maintain its crispy crust, avoid microwaving directly on the microwave tray.
5. Serving Suggestions for Delicious Chicken Parmesan
This cheesy baked chicken pairs amazingly well with cooked spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or a fresh green salad. For extra flavor, sprinkle additional Parmesan or chopped fresh herbs before serving. For a wholesome full meal, pair it with our Tuscan chicken and orzo bake.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Cheesy Chicken Parmesan
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before breading and cooking to ensure even cooking and optimal crispiness.
What are good substitutions for marinara sauce?
You can substitute marinara with other tomato-based sauces like arrabbiata or even a simple tomato ketchup for a different flavor profile.
How long does it take to make cheesy chicken parmesan?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick yet indulgent dinner option.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Essential for perfectly searing and baking your chicken with ease and even heat distribution.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker: Keeps your beverages cold while enjoying your cheesy chicken parmesan meal.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Ideal if you’d like to prepare a slow-cooked tomato sauce or make a hearty side dish.
These tools can elevate your cooking experience and make preparing this comforting dish even more enjoyable. Explore more useful kitchen gadgets to streamline your cooking adventures!
8. Conclusion
In summary, this cheesy baked chicken parmesan recipe is a delightful way to enjoy classic Italian comfort food right at home. With crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheese, every bite is satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish guarantees applause. Try it out today and savor the irresistible flavors of homemade chicken parmigiana.
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Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan Comfort Dish
A classic Italian-inspired baked chicken dish topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, garnished with fresh basil for a visually appealing presentation.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup of marinara sauce
- 1–1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. In another dish, beat eggs.
- Dip each chicken breast first into the eggs, then into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute homemade marinara sauce with store-bought for convenience.
- For extra crispy coating, double bread the chicken.
- This dish pairs well with spaghetti or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Baking and pan-frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Main Course
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce and cheese
- Calories: 480 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg