Chicken Parmigiana Recipe

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these form the base of the dish.

Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs are pre-seasoned with Italian herbs and spices, adding extra flavor to the chicken.

Parmesan cheese: Grated cheese that adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish.

Marinara sauce: A tomato-based sauce that adds richness and moisture.

Mozzarella cheese: Shredded cheese that melts beautifully over the chicken.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken to a golden brown.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the seasoning.

When preparing chicken breasts for Chicken Parmigiana, ensure they are of even thickness to promote uniform cooking. If necessary, use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This not only helps the chicken cook evenly but also tenderizes the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and flavor profile to chicken, making them a suitable alternative.

• italian seasoned breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier texture. Add italian seasoning to mimic the flavor.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and tangy flavor, though it is slightly sharper.

• marinara sauce - Substitute with tomato basil sauce: Tomato basil sauce offers a similar tomato base with a fresh basil twist.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with shredded provolone cheese: Provolone melts similarly to mozzarella and has a slightly stronger flavor.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar level of saltiness with a slightly different mineral content.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and flavor profile but is less visually noticeable in the dish.

• Allow the chicken parmigiana to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the cooled chicken breasts to an airtight container. If stacking, place a piece of parchment paper between each piece to avoid sticking.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• For freezing, wrap each piece of chicken parmigiana individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents freezer burn and maintains flavor.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness. Frozen chicken parmigiana can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
• To reheat from frozen, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the plastic wrap and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.
• For a crispier texture, uncover the chicken parmigiana during the last 10 minutes of reheating. This will help the cheese become bubbly and golden again.
• If using a microwave to reheat, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate. Heat on medium power in 1-2 minute intervals until warmed through, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover Chicken Parmigiana in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is heated through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the cheese crisp up a bit.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the Chicken Parmigiana on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent splatters.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Check the temperature and continue heating in 30-second intervals until the chicken is hot and the cheese is melted.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the Chicken Parmigiana in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is warmed through and the cheese is melted.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the Chicken Parmigiana in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook.
  4. The cheese should be melted and slightly crispy on top.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the Chicken Parmigiana on a toaster oven tray.
  3. Cover with aluminum foil to keep it moist.
  4. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, removing the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the cheese crisp up.

• Oven: Used to bake the chicken parmigiana at a consistent temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Skillet: Used to sear the chicken breasts until they are golden brown.

• Baking dish: Holds the chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and cheeses for baking.

• Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken breasts in the skillet.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and marinara sauce.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt, pepper, and olive oil.

• Grater: Needed if you are grating fresh parmesan cheese.

• Spatula: Useful for spreading the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts.

• Knife: For trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for seasoning and preparing the chicken breasts.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese if you prefer to mix them before topping the chicken.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when placing the baking dish in and out of the oven.

• Serving platter: For presenting the finished chicken parmigiana.

• Basil leaves: Optional, but can be used for garnishing the dish before serving.

Use pre-made marinara: Save time by using a high-quality store-bought marinara sauce instead of making your own.

Butterfly the chicken: Butterfly the chicken breasts to ensure they cook faster and more evenly.

Pre-shredded cheese: Use pre-shredded mozzarella to cut down on prep time.

One-pan method: Cook the chicken in an oven-safe skillet, then transfer directly to the oven to reduce dishwashing.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze extra portions for a quick meal later.