If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this Chicken Parmesan with 5 Minute Marinara. It’s the perfect balance of crispy chicken, savory marinara, and gooey cheese that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, this recipe is designed to be straightforward, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Chicken Parmesan with 5 Minute Marinara stands out for several reasons. First, the panko breadcrumbs provide a delightful crunch that you won’t get from regular bread crumbs. Second, the homemade marinara sauce takes just five minutes to prepare, ensuring that you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours. Finally, the combination of freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese elevates this classic dish to a new level of flavor. You really can’t go wrong with this recipe!

The Ingredient Lineup

6 boneless chicken breast halves: The star of the dish, ensuring a juicy and tender bite.
2 eggs: For binding the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
1/3 cup flour: Helps create a crispy coating.
1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs: Adds crunch and texture.
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Essential for that rich, cheesy flavor.
1/2 tsp EACH: dried parsley, dried basil, salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder for seasoning.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: A little kick to enhance the flavors.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness when frying the chicken.
1/4 cup olive oil: For frying and enhancing the overall flavor.
8 oz. mozzarella: Cut into 12 slices for that gooey, melty goodness.
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For topping the chicken.
Chopped fresh basil: For garnish and added freshness.
1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes: The base for our quick marinara sauce.
1/2 TBS EACH: sugar, chicken bouillon for depth of flavor.
1 tsp EACH: garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil for the marinara seasoning.
1/2 tsp EACH: dried oregano, dried thyme, salt.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: To taste.
Dash of red pepper flakes: For a subtle heat.

Recommended Tools

Meat mallet: For tenderizing the chicken breasts before cooking.
Three shallow dishes: For the breading process—one for flour, one for eggs, and one for breadcrumbs.
Large skillet: To fry the chicken to golden perfection.
Spatula: For flipping the chicken without breaking the crust.
Oven-safe baking dish: To finish cooking the chicken and melt the cheese.

Cooking Chicken Parmesan with 5 Minute Marinara: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, place each chicken breast half between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three separate shallow dishes, set up your breading station. In the first dish, add the flour. In the second dish, beat the eggs. In the third dish, combine the panko bread crumbs with 3/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, dried basil, salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Coat each chicken breast first in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, dredge the chicken in the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.

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 (do not overcrowd the skillet). Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking dish.

Step 5: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, sugar, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. After about 5 minutes, remove from heat. This quick sauce packs a punch and is perfect for our chicken!

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour a little marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, then top with 2 slices of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil. Serve hot, and watch as your family and friends dig in!

In-Season Flavor Ideas

Fresh tomatoes: Swap out the crushed tomatoes for fresh diced tomatoes in summer months for a fresher flavor.
Spinach: Add some sautéed spinach on top of the chicken before adding cheese for added nutrition.
Artichokes: Incorporate marinated artichokes into your marinara for a tangy twist.
Seasonal herbs: Use fresh herbs like thyme or oregano in the marinara for an extra burst of flavor.

Cook’s Commentary

This Chicken Parmesan with 5 Minute Marinara is one of those recipes that gets better with practice. The first time you make it, you might find yourself a bit slow as you bread the chicken and prepare the sauce. However, each time you revisit this dish, you’ll find ways to speed up the process and adjust flavors to your liking. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients, as it can easily adapt to what you have on hand. Everyone loves a classic, and this recipe is sure to impress!

Storage & Reheat Guide

Leftover Chicken Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the oven method will keep the chicken crispy.

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Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the information you need to create this delectable Chicken Parmesan with 5 Minute Marinara, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This dish will not only satisfy your taste buds but also leave you feeling accomplished in the kitchen. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to become a new favorite. Happy cooking!