8 Oz Chicken Parmesan is a popular Italian-American dish that consists of breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. With only 220 calories per serving, it's a delicious and guilt-free dinner option.

Chicken Parmesan can be a healthy meal choice if made with the right ingredients. Opt for whole wheat breadcrumbs and low-fat mozzarella cheese, and watch the portion sizes. Chicken is a good source of protein, while the marinara sauce provides plenty of vitamins and minerals.

In this article, we'll explore how to make Chicken Parmesan and some variations of the classic recipe along with tips on serving suggestions, reheating, and its history.

What is Chicken Parmesan?

Chicken Parmesan is a dish that originated in Italian-American cuisine. It typically consists of deboned chicken breast that has been battered, fried in bread crumbs, and baked topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The dish has become popular in American restaurants, and there are various interpretations of the recipe. Parmesan may sometimes be substituted with other Italian cheeses like Asiago, provolone, or Romano.

What are the ingredients in Chicken Parmesan?

This recipe requires chicken breasts, eggs, breadcrumbs, marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated parmesan cheese. To make it healthier or to mix it up, you can try using almond meal, panko crumbs or chicken thighs instead of traditional breadcrumbs, or use low-fat cheese options.

Is Chicken Parmesan healthy?

Chicken Parmesan can be a healthy indulgence if you choose to use a few valuable ingredients. Chicken is a nutritious option that is low in fat and calories with high protein content that keeps you full for longer. To make the meal lighter, you can opt for whole grain breadcrumbs and use non-fat cheese that still brings the classic flavor. However, avoid consuming this dish frequently as marinara sauce can be packed with an abundant amount of sodium.

How to cook Chicken Parmesan?

To cook Chicken Parmesan, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken slices in egg and coat them with breadcrumbs, place the chicken slices in a baking dish and spread marinara sauce over the top of the chicken. Bake for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven, and sprinkle with the cheese on the top. Put the dish back in the oven, and let it bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The ideal temperature for chicken breast is 165 ºF when you use a meat thermometer. Serve hot with suggested side dishes!

What are the variations of Chicken Parmesan?

There's more than one way to make Chicken Parmesan with some twists to the classic recipe to shake things up! For example, you can try making it with sautéed zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta, or use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Alternatively, you could change the cheese to provolone, fontina, or asiago, or even try cooking with different proteins such as turkey, eggplant, or veal!

What sides go with Chicken Parmesan?

The classic Italian side dishes that go well with Chicken Parmesan are a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, pasta, or breadsticks. You can also add roasted vegetables to help balance the richness of the dish, such as roasted asparagus, broccoli or even squash. For a low-carb alternative, roast cauliflower or Brussels sprouts, or serve zucchini noodles.

How to reheat Chicken Parmesan?

To reheat Chicken Parmesan, preheat your oven to 350°F (175ºC). Line a baking dish with parchment paper and place the leftover chicken pieces in it. Spoon marinara sauce on top, cover in foil, and bake until heated through, about 20–30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave on low power, checking regularly until hot.

Where did Chicken Parmesan originate?

Chicken Parmesan originated in Italian-American cuisine during the 20th century. Italian immigrants to the United States developed the dish, with variations out of their traditional dishes of chicken cacciatore or veal parmesan. The dish has gained immense popularity and is now available at most American-Italian restaurants and homes around the country.

What are the best restaurants to try Chicken Parmesan?

The best Italian trattorias will undoubtedly offer this classic recipe on their plates. If you want the authentic taste of Italy, Chicken Parmesan at Rao's in New York or Carmines in Las Vegas is an ideal choice. If you prefer a more casual dining experience, consider a chain restaurant like Maggiano's little Italy or Olive Garden.

How to make Chicken Parmesan from scratch?

For a perfect Chicken Parmesan recipe, take a shallow bowl and whisk eggs and water. In another shallow plate mix breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing it firmly to adhere. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat, and cook the coated chicken for 3-4 min per side or until cooked through. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the chicken slices in a baking dish and spread marinara sauce over the top of the chicken. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 20 mins until the cheese is melted and bubbly.