Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting yet sophisticated meal that’s sure to impress, look no further than Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan with Garlic Butter Sauce. This dish combines the classic Italian flavors of chicken parmesan with a modern twist, featuring a crispy panko coating and a luscious garlic butter sauce that adds depth and richness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil spray or ¼ cup olive oil

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Set up a breading station: In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and panko mixed with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
3. Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in the panko-Parmesan mix, pressing down gently to adhere.
5. Bake the chicken: Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil for added crispiness. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce:

1. Melt the butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
2. Add garlic: Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Finish the sauce: Stir in parsley, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assembling the Chicken Parmesan:

1. Add marinara sauce: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each chicken breast.
2. Top with mozzarella: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the marinara sauce.
3. Final bake: Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving:

1. Plate the chicken: Serve the crispy baked chicken parmesan drizzled with the garlic butter sauce.
2. Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Pairing suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with a side of spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Tips:

• Ingredient Selection: Choose high-quality ingredients, especially for the marinara sauce and cheese. A homemade marinara can elevate the dish significantly.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Using panko instead of regular breadcrumbs creates a lighter, crunchier texture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free panko.
• Chicken Thickness: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before breading. This ensures they cook thoroughly without drying out.
• Garlic Butter Variations: Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick or swap the parsley for basil for a different flavor profile.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute the butter with a plant-based option.
• Herb Options: Experiment with different herbs in the panko coating, such as oregano or thyme, for a unique twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with eggplant or zucchini slices, following the same breading and baking process.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan with Garlic Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that combines comfort food with gourmet flair. The crispy texture of the chicken, the richness of the marinara and cheese, and the fragrant garlic butter sauce make for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe will surely become a favorite.

For those looking to expand their culinary repertoire, consider exploring more Italian-inspired recipes or techniques for breading and frying. Embrace the joy of cooking and don’t hesitate to experiment in your kitchen!

If you’ve enjoyed this recipe, consider sharing it with friends or subscribing for more delicious content. Explore the world of flavors and dive into the culinary adventure!

Further Reading

• Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe
• How to Perfectly Bread Chicken
• Exploring Italian Cuisine

By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll create a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Happy cooking!