Chicken Parmigiana

There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of Chicken Parmigiana. I remember the first time I had it at a quaint little Italian restaurant down the street from my childhood home. The aroma of bubbling cheese and rich tomato sauce filled the air, making my stomach rumble with anticipation. It was a cold evening, and nothing could have warmed me more than that hearty dish. The crispy breaded chicken, coated in that tangy marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese, was pure bliss. It became a family favorite, often requested for special occasions and cozy Sunday dinners.

As I grew older, I learned how to recreate this delightful dish in my own kitchen, and it quickly became a staple in my cooking repertoire. Now, whenever I make Chicken Parmigiana, it brings back fond memories and fills my home with the same warming essence I experienced years ago.

Recipe Ingredients for Chicken Parmigiana

When making Chicken Parmigiana, it’s essential to use quality ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The star players in this dish are the juicy chicken breasts, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese. Together, they create a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. Let’s break down what you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – This is for dredging the chicken, giving it that delightful crispy coating.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the flavors.
• 8 chicken breasts, trimmed and pounded flat – The main protein of the dish, ensuring tenderness and quick cooking.
• 1 lb thin linguine – A perfect base to serve under the Chicken Parmigiana.
• 1/2 cup olive oil – Used for pan-frying the chicken, adding richness.
• 2 tbsp butter – For flavor and to help brown the chicken beautifully.
• 4 tsp minced garlic – Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the sauce.
• 1 tsp onion powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 3/4 cup chicken stock – Provides moisture and richness to the sauce.
• 43.5 oz crushed tomatoes – The base of the sauce, bringing acidity and sweetness.
• 1 tbsp sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 1/4 cup parsley, freshly chopped, plus more for serving – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
• 1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese, grated – The crowning glory that melts beautifully on top of the chicken.

Putting Together Chicken Parmigiana

Making Chicken Parmigiana is a delightful and fulfilling process. Let’s walk through the steps together to create this mouthwatering dish. Follow along closely, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in no time.

1. Start by mixing the flour, salt, and pepper on a plate. This mixture will help create a crispy coating on the chicken. Make sure it’s evenly mixed, so every bite is flavorful.
2. Take the chicken breasts and dip them into the flour mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Gently shake off any excess flour and set the coated chicken aside on a clean plate.
3. Now, it’s time to cook the linguine. Cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving some of the pasta water for later if needed.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on the heat; you want it hot enough to fry the chicken without burning the fat.
5. When the oil is shimmering, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the skillet. Fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them over, ensuring they cook evenly.
6. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. You might want to cover it with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.
7. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and onion powder to the remaining oil and butter, stirring for about a minute until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
8. Next, pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor to your sauce. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
9. Now, add the crushed tomatoes and sugar to the skillet. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 25 to 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
10. With about 5 minutes left in the sauce cooking time, toss in the chopped parsley for a fresh touch. It adds a lovely color and flavor boost!
11. Once the sauce is ready, return the crispy chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure they are covered with the sauce. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook until the cheese starts bubbling and melting, about 3 to 5 minutes.
12. To serve, plate the cooked linguine and pour the rich sauce over the noodles. Place a crispy chicken breast on top. Garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Substitutions and Tips

If you’re looking to make some adjustments to the Chicken Parmigiana recipe or want to learn some handy tips, here are several suggestions to consider:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use the oven to keep the chicken crispy.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked Chicken Parmigiana for up to three months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
• Pairing: Serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix cheeses! Mozzarella and provolone work beautifully alongside Parmesan for a delicious combination.
• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a bit of heat.

Great Combinations for Chicken Parmigiana

Once you’ve perfected your Chicken Parmigiana, consider these great combinations to elevate your meal:

• Serve with Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment, especially for sopping up that rich marinara sauce.
• Pair with a Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Perfect for Family Dinners: This dish is fantastic for gatherings, bringing everyone together with its comforting flavors.
• Ideal for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday or an anniversary, Chicken Parmigiana adds a touch of elegance to the table.
• Make it a Feast: Consider side options like roasted vegetables or a creamy risotto to create a complete dining experience.
• Pair with Light Wines: For those who enjoy wine, a light white wine complements the flavors beautifully.

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Chicken Parmigiana lies in its heartwarming flavors and comforting essence. This dish brings together the simple pleasures of crispy chicken, zesty marinara, and rich cheese in a way that is undeniably satisfying. I encourage you to try making this recipe for your next family dinner or gathering. It’s a dish that not only delights the palate but also fosters cherished memories around the table.

Chicken Parmigiana

Craving something comforting? This Chicken Parmigiana is the ultimate comfort food! Crispy chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheese come together for an easy weeknight dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds. Make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 27 minutes mins

Total Time 37 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• salt and pepper to taste
• 8 chicken breasts trimmed and pounded flat
• 1 lb thin linguine
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 3/4 cup chicken stock
• 43.5 oz crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/4 cup parsley freshly chopped, plus more for serving
• 1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese grated

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Grater
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Saucepan

Method

 

1. Mix flour, salt and pepper on a plate.
2. Dip chicken breasts in flour mixture until coated on the front and back. Set aside.
3. Cook linguine as instructed on box.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter on medium heat.
5. Fry chicken breasts in the oil and butter mixture for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
6. Add garlic and onion powder to the remaining oil and butter mixture. Add chicken stock and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
7. Add the crushed tomatoes and sugar to the skillet. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cook on low for 25 to 30 minutes.
8. With 5 minutes left, add parsley.
9. Add chicken breasts to the sauce and cover with grated Parmesan cheese. Put on the lid to the skillet and cook until the cheese starts to bubble. Simmer until the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through.
10. Add noodles to a plate and pour sauce over the noodles. Place a chicken breast over the top. Add more parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use the oven to keep the chicken crispy.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked Chicken Parmigiana for up to three months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
• Pairing: Serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix cheeses! Mozzarella and provolone work beautifully alongside Parmesan for a delicious combination.
• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a bit of heat.

Previous PostChicken and Rice Casserole

Next Post Chicken Fajita Casserole

Meet Rose Kelley

I’m happiest when I have dirt under my fingernails and fresh herbs in my hand. I bring a garden-to-table philosophy to our group. I’m always tossing handfuls of fresh basil or mint into our pots, looking for that pop of freshness. I love cooking alongside Maya to ensure our meals feel vibrant and alive. I participate in every step, from the initial chopping to the final taste test!