Try this simple and delicious chicken parmesan recipe that will have dinner on the table in no time. With a few shortcuts, you can enjoy the classic Italian dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
One of our go to dishes is this quick and easy chicken parmesan recipe. We’ve found that using crushed croutons makes for the ultimate chicken parmesan recipe!
Secret to the Best Chicken Parm
We’ve tried breadcrumbs, seasoned bread crumbs, panko and seasoned panko and we always come back to our same secret for making the best chicken parmesan recipe. I am pretty sure you’re going to love our way and be hooked forever. Crisp, golden brown chicken perfectly smothered in a light and flavorful marinara and mozzarella cheese that’s been cooked until gooey and delicious, now that’s dinner I want!
I really like to make my own marinara sauce and I’ll include a recipe for marinara here, but if there isn’t time, just go ahead and used jarred. Does it really matter? Nah, but I do think homemade sauce is better.
What is Chicken Parmesan?
Is chicken parmesan Italian? Is chicken parmesan and chicken parmigiana the same thing?
Chicken parmesan is breaded chicken that is then covered in a tomato sauce and topped with mozzarella, parmesan or sometimes even provolone cheese. It’s often eaten over pasta like spaghetti but can be eaten alone or as an entree. Chicken parmesan subs are another favorite and we happen to have a really, really good recipe for it if this quick and easy shortcut chicken parmesan recipe isn’t enough for you.
Chicken Parmesan and chicken parmigiana are the exact same thing.
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Parmesan
The beauty of this recipe is that everything can be made from scratch or everything can be store bought so you can decide how quick and easy you want it be! Here is what you will need:
Chicken Parmesan
- Chicken Breasts: Grab boneless and skinless and then butterfly them and pound them flat.
- Focaccia or Garden Herb Croutons: We grab a bag at Costco and crush them in a ziploc bag.
- Butter and Olive Oil: Used to brown the chicken to golden perfection.
- Marinara Sauce: You can make the recipe down below or grab your favorite store-bought brand. I’m pretty obsessed with Rao’s lately!
- Mozzarella Cheese: We prefer Precious brand or fresh mozzarella, but any mozz will work great!
- Angel Hair Pasta: Spaghetti would also work great.
Marinara
- Olive Oil: used to sauté the veggies
- Vegetables: Small Onion, Carrots, Garlic Cloves, Crushed Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce
- Seasonings: Salt, Pepper, Bay Leaves
The measurements for all the ingredients can be found in the recipe card at the end of