Chicken Parmesan with Extra Cheese
Chicken Parmesan with Extra Cheese is a comforting and fulfilling dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your dining table! This recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in breadcrumbs, smothered in marinara sauce, and generously topped with gooey, melted cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish is not only easy to prepare but will also impress your family and guests with its irresistible flavors!
Chicken Parmesan with Extra Cheese is a comforting and fulfilling dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your dining table! This recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in breadcrumbs, smothered in marinara sauce, and generously topped with gooey, melted cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish is not only easy to prepare but will also impress your family and guests with its irresistible flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: Chicken Parmesan with Extra Cheese is an easy recipe that involves minimal steps—from breading to baking—you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish is perfect for satisfying cravings, featuring crispy chicken, savory marinara, and a melty cheese topping that creates a comforting and indulgent meal.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavors to fit your preferences by using different types of cheese or adding herbs and spices to the breadcrumb mixture.
Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan with Extra Cheese
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken Breasts: The main protein component; boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for ease of preparation.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for an added flavor boost.
- Eggs: Lightly beaten, eggs help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
- Marinara Sauce: A flavorful tomato-based sauce that enriches the dish; feel free to use store-bought or homemade.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The star ingredient that melts beautifully on top of the chicken.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty and salty flavor to complement the mozzarella.
- Olive Oil: Necessary for drizzling on the chicken before baking for a golden finish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan with Extra Cheese
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs with salt, pepper, and any preferred seasonings.
- Dip each chicken breast in the beaten eggs, then coat in breadcrumbs, pressing firmly to ensure an even layer.
- Place the breaded chicken in the greased baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and top each piece with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Tips for Making Chicken Parmesan with Extra Cheese
- Use Thin Chicken Breasts: Pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly and remain juicy.
- Don’t Skip the Baking Step: This recipe works best when you bake the chicken rather than frying to keep it light and avoid excess oil.
- Experiment with Cheese: Mix different cheeses together or add provolone or fontina for a rich flavor.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Make the marinara sauce ahead of time and keep it in the fridge or freezer for easier preparation later.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezing Chicken Parmesan with Extra Cheese
- To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This prevents freezer burn.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Chicken Parmesan with Extra Cheese
- Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- If using a microwave, heat on medium power in short intervals until the chicken is hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Caprese Salad
- Garlic Bread
- Caesar Salad
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result, though they will require a bit more cooking time.
What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
Pasta, salad, or garlic bread are popular sides that complement Chicken Parmesan well.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Certainly! You can add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for an extra kick.
Can I use store-bought marinara?
Yes, using store-bought marinara sauce is a great time-saver and still delicious!
How do I keep the chicken from becoming soggy?
Baking rather than frying and ensuring the breadcrumbs are crispy before adding sauce will keep the chicken from getting soggy.
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Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat and prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Breadcrumbs and season
In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs with salt, pepper, and any preferred seasonings.
Bread and coat
Dip each chicken breast in the beaten eggs, then coat in breadcrumbs, pressing firmly to ensure an even layer.
Bake the chicken
Place the breaded chicken in the greased baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
First bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden.
Add sauce and cheese
Remove the chicken from the oven and top each piece with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
Second bake
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve
Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Notes
- For extra cheese lovers, add an extra sprinkle of mozzarella baked on top.
- You can assemble ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- To keep chicken juicy, don’t overcook.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result, though they will require a bit more cooking time.
What goes well with Chicken Parmesan with Extra Cheese?
Pasta, salad, or garlic bread are popular sides that complement Chicken Parmesan well.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Certainly! You can add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for an extra kick.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, using store-bought marinara sauce is a great time-saver and still delicious!
How do I keep the chicken from becoming soggy?
Baking rather than frying and ensuring the breadcrumbs are crispy before adding sauce will keep the chicken from getting soggy.
