Chicken Parmesan with 5 Minute Marinara

Chicken Parmesan is an all-time classic that never fails to impress, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends. This dish combines tender chicken breasts, crispy breadcrumbs, and a rich marinara sauce to create a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. But what if I told you that you could whip up Chicken Parmesan with a homemade marinara sauce in just about the time it takes to watch your favorite sitcom? Let’s dive into this flavorful journey with my easy Chicken Parmesan with 5 Minute Marinara.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Parmesan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The 5 Minute Marinara sauce is a game-changer—simple and quick to make, it elevates the dish without adding too much time to your cooking. The combination of crispy chicken, gooey mozzarella, and fresh basil brings a burst of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests with minimal effort!

Ingredient List

• 6 boneless chicken breast halves
• 2 eggs
• 1/3 cup flour
• 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (grated on smallest hole)
• 1/2 tsp EACH: dried parsley, dried basil, salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 8 oz. mozzarella, cut into 12 slices
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh basil for garnish
• 1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes (no seasonings added)
• 1/2 tablespoon EACH: sugar, chicken bouillon
• 1 tsp EACH: garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil
• 1/2 tsp EACH: dried oregano, dried thyme, salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• Dash of red pepper flakes

Cook’s Kit

• Large skillet for frying
• Two shallow bowls for breading
• Whisk for eggs
• Meat mallet or rolling pin for flattening chicken
• Spatula for flipping chicken
• Small saucepan for marinara sauce
• Oven-safe baking dish for finishing the chicken

Directions: Chicken Parmesan with 5 Minute Marinara

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, take your boneless chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them to about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one shallow bowl, beat the two eggs. In another bowl, combine the flour, panko bread crumbs, 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, dried basil, salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated for that perfect crispy crust.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the cooked chicken to an oven-safe baking dish.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Top each chicken breast with slices of mozzarella and sprinkle an additional 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Make the 5 Minute Marinara

While the chicken is baking, prepare your marinara sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the crushed tomatoes, sugar, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and a dash of red pepper flakes. Stir and allow to simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 8: Serve

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and serve hot, drizzled with the fresh marinara sauce and garnished with chopped basil.

Seasonal Spins

• Spring: Add asparagus or peas to the marinara for a pop of color and freshness.
• Summer: Serve with a side of grilled zucchini or eggplant for a seasonal twist.
• Fall: Incorporate pumpkin puree into the marinara for a unique flavor.
• Winter: Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts or a warm salad for a comforting meal.

Missteps & Fixes

Even the best chefs can make a few missteps in the kitchen! Here are some common ones and how to fix them:

• If your chicken isn’t browning, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken.
• If the breading falls off during cooking, try pressing it onto the chicken more firmly before frying.
• If your marinara sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth to thin it out.
• If the chicken is overcooked, keep an eye on the baking time and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F).

Storing Tips & Timelines

Leftovers are a beautiful thing, especially with Chicken Parmesan! Here are some tips for storing:

• Refrigerate any leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, storing for up to 3 months.
• When reheating, do so in the oven at 350°F to maintain the crispiness of the chicken.

Quick Q&A

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko gives a lighter, crispier texture. If you use regular breadcrumbs, the chicken may be denser.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Simply substitute the flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives such as almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

What sides pair well with Chicken Parmesan?

Garlic bread, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables are all excellent choices to complement Chicken Parmesan.

Final Bite

Every bite of this Chicken Parmesan with 5 Minute Marinara is a delightful experience that captures the essence of comfort food. The tender chicken, crispy coating, and the rich, tangy sauce come together in harmony, creating a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it up for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe is a surefire hit that’s both easy and impressive. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You’re going to love this Chicken Parmesan with 5 Minute Marinara.