Name: Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 ½ cups whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded; ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

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The aroma of bubbling marinara and melted cheese wafting through the air, mingled with crispy, golden-brown chicken, is a culinary symphony that promises a feast for the senses. If you’re on the hunt for a dish that encapsulates comfort food at its finest, look no further than this Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm. Imagine sinking your fork into tender chicken, enveloped in a luscious blanket of cheese and sauce—pure bliss!

Growing up, Sundays were reserved for family dinners filled with laughter and delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. My mom’s Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm was always the star of the show. It was a dish that could turn any ordinary day into an occasion worth celebrating. Whether it was a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, this dish never failed to impress and deliver smiles all around.

Why You'll Love This Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm

This incredible Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor in your sauce.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought or homemade; just ensure it’s packed with flavor!
Mozzarella Cheese: Go for whole milk mozzarella for that glorious melty goodness.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is ideal; it adds a nutty depth to your dish.
Basil Leaves: Fresh basil elevates flavor; don’t skip it if you can help it!
Breadcrumbs: Use Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra kick of flavor.

For the Sauce:

Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil not only enhances flavor but also helps brown the chicken perfectly.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors in all your ingredients.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish and spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray. We don’t want our beautiful creation to stick!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them until they’re golden brown—about 5-7 minutes per side should do.

Step 3: Make Your Marinara Sauce

In another small saucepan over low heat, combine minced garlic and marinara sauce. Simmer it gently to let those flavors meld together beautifully—about 5 minutes will give you that rich taste.

Step 4: Assemble Your Dish

Once the chicken is cooked through (no one likes raw chicken), place them in your prepared baking dish. Spoon your luxurious marinara sauce generously over each chicken breast. Now comes the fun part—top them off with heaps of mozzarella and sprinkle parmesan cheese like confetti.

Step 5: Bake Away

Pop your baking dish into the oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown—trust me; this is when you’ll want to shout “Eureka!”

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! An Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm that’s not only scrumptious but also easy enough to whip up even after a long day at work. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or showcasing it at a dinner party, this dish is bound to impress everyone at your table!

You Must Know About Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm

This showstopping Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until it’s golden brown and juicy. While the chicken cooks, prepare your pasta and let it simmer. Then, whip up that delightful sauce to bring everything together in an orchestra of flavor.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out the chicken for eggplant or zucchini for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda, and don’t forget about adding fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that cheesy goodness melts again!

Chef's Helpful Tips for Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm

This professional-quality Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Cooking this dish always brings back memories of a family gathering where my cousin declared it better than our favorite Italian restaurant! It was a proud moment that kept everyone coming back for more.

FAQs

What is Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm?

Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts, rich marinara sauce, and melting cheese. This recipe creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for families or gatherings. The chicken is typically breaded and baked to achieve a crispy texture, then topped with sauce and cheese before being finished in the oven. It offers a comforting blend of flavors that appeals to both adults and children alike, making it a popular choice for weeknight dinners.

How long does it take to prepare Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm?

Preparing Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm usually takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking time. This makes it an ideal option for busy evenings when you want to serve a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. In total, you can expect the entire process to take approximately 45 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dinner quickly.

Can I customize my Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm is its versatility. You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices, such as basil or oregano. Additionally, consider using different types of cheese like mozzarella or provolone for added flavor. Feel free to include vegetables like spinach or mushrooms in the dish for extra nutrition. This adaptability ensures that everyone can enjoy their own version.

What do I serve with Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm?

Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Classic options include spaghetti or garlic bread, which complement the Italian flavors beautifully. For a healthier twist, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it over rice or quinoa for a unique take on this beloved dish. These sides will enhance your meal while providing balance and variety.

Conclusion

In summary, Easy & Cheesy Chicken Parm is a quick and flavorful dish that brings joy to any dinner table. With its simple preparation and customizable options, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Remember that you can serve it with various sides to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love. Try this comforting recipe today and savor every cheesy bite!