Craving a classic Chicken Parmesan but short on time and oven space? This skillet version delivers all the cheesy, saucy goodness in a fraction of the time! Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to a delicious, easy weeknight dinner the whole family will love. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal on the table. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking without the fuss!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your chicken by cutting the breasts into 1-inch thick slices. This ensures even cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Bread the Chicken:
- Set up a breading station: a shallow dish with flour, a shallow dish with beaten eggs, and a shallow dish with breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is fully coated for a crispy crust.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (at least 12 inches) over medium-high heat.
- Add the breaded chicken to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Add the Sauce and Cheese:
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken in the skillet.
- Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
Finishing Touches:
- If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Alternatively, you can broil it for a few minutes to achieve a nice browning effect. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan:
- Don't overcrowd the skillet: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Use an oven-safe skillet: This makes transferring to the oven seamless, for that perfect melted cheese.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker chicken breasts may require longer cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Get creative with cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or fontina.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs or marinara sauce for a little heat.
- Veggie Chicken Parmesan: Add sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the skillet with the chicken.
- Lemon Herb Chicken Parmesan: Add lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious Chicken Parmesan skillet recipe is a fantastic option for a quick and easy dinner. The ease of preparation and cleanup makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights while still delivering a restaurant-quality meal. Enjoy!