Chicken Parmesan with Marinara and Mozzarella

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke the same sense of warmth and satisfaction as Chicken Parmesan. This iconic Italian-American dish has captured the hearts and palates of many, transforming the humble chicken breast into a culinary masterpiece. Cheesy Chicken Parm Heaven takes this classic recipe to new heights, offering a delightful combination of crispy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese that is simply irresistible. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that embraces the essence of home cooking.

Chicken Parmesan with Marinara and Mozzarella

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheesy Chicken Parm Heaven—a culinary masterpiece that elevates the classic Chicken Parmesan. This dish features crispy breaded chicken layered with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella, creating a harmonious blend of taste and texture. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, it's a heartwarming experience that nourishes both body and soul. Discover the secrets to making this beloved comfort food at home!

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and black pepper to taste

Olive oil, for frying

For the Marinara Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Assembly:

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Marinara Sauce:

- In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

- Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and sugar (if using) to the saucepan, along with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Prepare the Chicken:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

- Create a breading station: In one bowl, place the all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and black pepper. In a second bowl, have the lightly beaten eggs ready. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, and then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture; press lightly to ensure the crumbs adhere well.

Fry the Chicken:

- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully fry the breaded chicken breasts in batches, about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Assemble the Chicken Parmesan:

- In a baking dish, pour a thin layer of marinara sauce to coat the bottom. Arrange the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce.

- Spoon additional marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, ensuring each is well-coated. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.

Bake:

- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Serve:

- Once baked, remove the Chicken Parmesan from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes to set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. This delightful dish pairs perfectly with a side of spaghetti or a crisp garden salad.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | 4 servings