Stuffed Chicken Parmesan

When I think of comfort food, Stuffed Chicken Parmesan is at the top of the list. This dish has a way of bringing everyone together, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. I remember the first time I made it; I was nervous about whether I could pull it off, but as soon as the aroma filled my kitchen, I knew I was onto something special. The combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and rich marinara sauce is simply irresistible. Each bite is like a warm hug, and it has quickly become a family favorite. I love how versatile it is too—perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. If you’re looking to impress, this dish will surely do the trick!

Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Ingredients

The ingredients in Stuffed Chicken Parmesan come together harmoniously to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The key players—chicken, mozzarella, and marinara sauce—work together to bring flavor and richness to every bite.

• 1 1/2 lbs chicken breasts (about 4 medium): Tender and juicy chicken is the star of this dish, providing a hearty base for the stuffing.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This helps create a crisp coating that seals in moisture.
• 3/4 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the dish.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to balance the richness.
• 2 large eggs: These are beaten to create a binding agent for the breadcrumbs.
• 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs (like panko): Provides the perfect crunch to the exterior of the chicken.
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese: Adds depth of flavor with its salty and nutty notes.
• 3 tbsp extra light olive oil: Used for frying the chicken to golden perfection.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: Rich and flavorful sauce that complements the chicken beautifully.
• 6 oz mozzarella cheese (divided): Melts wonderfully, adding creaminess to the filling.
• 6 fresh basil leaves: Finely chopped, they add a fresh and aromatic touch to the dish.

Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Instructions

Making Stuffed Chicken Parmesan is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you through creating this delicious masterpiece.

1. Season the chicken breasts with 3/4 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper or to taste. This initial seasoning is crucial as it sets the foundation for flavor. Try to coat every side evenly for the best results.
2. Cut a deep slit into each breast without cutting all the way through. This will create a pocket to stuff with mozzarella. Be careful not to cut through completely; you want to keep the chicken intact.
3. Stuff each breast with 2-3 tbsp of mozzarella, closing the edges to seal them. You can use toothpicks to secure the openings if necessary. This ensures the cheesy goodness stays inside while cooking.
4. Set up three large bowls. In the first, pour 1/2 cup flour. In the second, beat the 2 large eggs thoroughly with a fork. In the third, stir together 1/2 cup bread crumbs and 1/3 cup parmesan cheese. This creates your breading station, which is essential for a crispy exterior.
5. Working with one stuffed chicken breast at a time, carefully dredge it in flour, tapping off any excess. This light coating helps the egg and bread crumbs stick better for a crunchier finish.
6. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip back into the bowl. This step adds moisture to bind the bread crumbs.
7. Finally, dip into the bread crumbs, turning a couple of times to get a good coating. Make sure the surface is well-covered for that delightful crunch when baked.
8. Place a large, deep pan or dutch oven over medium heat and add 3 tbsp olive oil to lightly coat the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken in a single layer. Sauté for around 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Look for a nice golden color to ensure the chicken is crispy.
9. Pour 2 cups marinara sauce around the chicken and spoon some of the sauce onto the center of each breast. This creates a flavorful base for the chicken to cook in.
10. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the stuffed chicken then bake uncovered at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F when inserted into the chicken. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving for a beautiful finish.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To elevate your cooking experience, consider these expert tips to perfect your Stuffed Chicken Parmesan.

• Storage: Store leftover Stuffed Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve your Stuffed Chicken Parmesan with a side of pasta, a fresh salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Herb Variations: Mix in different herbs like oregano or thyme to the filling for an extra flavor kick.
• Cooking Method: For a lighter version, consider baking the chicken in the oven without frying first. Just ensure it’s seasoned well and cooked through.

Pairing Suggestions for Stuffed Chicken Parmesan

When serving Stuffed Chicken Parmesan, consider these delightful pairing options to create a memorable meal.

• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
• Pasta: Pair with spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in olive oil and garlic for an Italian feast.
• Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water to balance the flavors.
• Occasions: This dish is versatile enough for casual family dinners or special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Stuffed Chicken Parmesan truly stands out as a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making it, as it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With its crispy exterior and gooey interior, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds. Happy cooking!

Stuffed Chicken Parmesan

The ultimate comfort food, Stuffed Chicken Parmesan brings layers of flavor with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and rich marinara sauce. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for impressing family and friends alike. Make it tonight for a deliciously satisfying meal!

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Prep Time 7 minutes mins

Cook Time 23 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 lbs chicken breasts (about 4 medium)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten free flour)
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs (well beaten with a fork)
• 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs (such as panko, see notes for GF option)
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)
• 3 tbsp extra light olive oil (plus more as needed)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 6 oz mozzarella cheese (divided, 1 1/2 cups shredded)
• 6 pieces fresh basil leaves (finely chopped, to garnish)

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Season the chicken breasts with 3/4 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper or to taste.
2. Cut a deep slit into each breast without cutting all the way through and stuff each with 2-3 Tbsp of mozzarella, closing the edges to seal.
3. Set up 3 large bowls. In the first, pour 1/2 cup flour. In the second, beat 2 large eggs thoroughly with a fork. In the third, stir together 1/2 cup bread crumbs and 1/3 cup parmesan cheese.
4. Working with 1 stuffed chicken breast at a time, carefully dredge in flour, tapping off any excess.
5. Then dip into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip back into the bowl.
6. Finally dip in bread crumbs, turning a couple times to get a good coating.
7. Place a large, deep pan or dutch oven over medium heat and add 3 Tbsp olive oil to lightly coat the pan.
8. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken in a single layer and sauté 4 min per side or until golden brown on each side.
9. Pour 2 cups marinara sauce around the chicken and spoon some of the marinara onto the center of each breast.
10. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella over the stuffed chicken then bake uncovered at 400˚F for 15-20 min, or until an instant read thermometer reads 165˚F when inserted into the chicken.
11. Garnish with freshly chopped basil.

Notes

• Tip 1: For Gluten Free version, we used Namaste brand flour and finely crushed GF cracker crumbs by the "Glutino" brand.

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Meet Delilah Moon

We eat with our eyes first, and I strive to capture the energy of our food through photography. I am deeply involved in the cooking process, styling our dishes to show you exactly how appetizing they can be. I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative and confident in your own kitchen.