Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this stuffed chicken parmesan recipe! It’s one of those dishes that just warms your heart and fills your belly with pure joy. Imagine tender chicken breasts, juicy and stuffed with a heavenly blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. Trust me, every bite is like a hug on a plate! I remember the first time I made this for my family; the smiles on their faces said it all. The aroma filling the kitchen was irresistible, and my kids couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s become a weeknight favorite in our house, and I just know it will be in yours too! So, are you ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the cheesy goodness together!
Ingredients for Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Gathering your ingredients is the first exciting step in making this delightful dish! Here’s what you’ll need to create the ultimate stuffed chicken parmesan:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts: Look for ones that are plump and fresh for maximum juiciness.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: This is the star cheese that gives that melty, gooey goodness.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: A sprinkle of this adds a sharp, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the mozzarella.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade if you have it! It really amplifies the flavor.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: This gives the chicken that delightful crunch. You can use plain or Italian-seasoned for an extra kick!
- 2 eggs: These help the breadcrumbs stick beautifully to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A delightful mix of herbs that brings that classic Italian taste to life.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget these! They’ll enhance all those rich flavors.
- Olive oil for frying: Just enough to give the chicken a lovely golden crust. Trust me, it makes a difference!
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re all set to create a dish that’s not just tasty but utterly comforting. Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare the Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Preheat and Prepare the Chicken
Alright, let’s kick things off! First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is super important because we want that chicken to bake perfectly while we get everything else ready. Now, take your boneless chicken breasts and gently slice a pocket into the side of each one. Be careful not to cut all the way through—just enough to create a little space for that cheesy goodness!
Make the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Oh, the smell of these two together is just heavenly! Mix them well so every bite of your chicken will be bursting with cheesy flavor. Now, grab your chicken breasts and stuff that cheese mixture into each pocket. Don’t be shy—pack it in there! The more cheese, the better, right?
Season and Coat the Chicken
Now for the fun part! Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper all over the chicken. This is where we build flavor, so don’t skip this step! Next, take the beaten eggs and dip each stuffed chicken breast into the egg mixture, making sure it’s coated nicely. Then, roll it in the breadcrumbs until it’s completely covered. This breadcrumb layer is what’s going to give your chicken that delightful crunch!
Fry and Bake the Chicken
Time to get cooking! Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add your chicken breasts carefully, and let them brown for about 5 minutes on each side. You want that lovely golden color to develop. Once they’re beautifully browned, transfer them to a baking dish and pour marinara sauce over the top. Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbling. Yum!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make this delicious stuffed chicken parmesan, let me share some of my best tips to ensure you get mouthwatering results every time!
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have a little extra time, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for a few hours before cooking. It really enhances the flavor and makes the chicken even juicier!
- Don’t Overstuff: It’s tempting to pack in as much cheese as possible, but be careful not to overstuff those pockets. Otherwise, you might end up with a cheesy explosion in the oven!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cheeses make a huge difference in flavor. If you can, opt for freshly grated Parmesan and good-quality mozzarella.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite super tender and delicious.
- Pair with Sides: Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted veggies to balance the richness of the dish. A side of spaghetti is also a classic choice!
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like provolone or fontina for a fun twist! They’ll melt beautifully and add unique flavors.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re destined for stuffed chicken parmesan greatness! Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor every cheesy bite!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional information for one serving of this delightful stuffed chicken parmesan. Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the exact ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 40g
This stuffed chicken parmesan packs a punch with protein while still being satisfying and full of flavor! It’s a hearty meal that the whole family will love. Just remember, these numbers are estimates—so feel free to adjust based on your ingredients and personal preferences! Enjoy your cheesy, delicious creation!
FAQ About Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are the classic choices for stuffed chicken parmesan, you can definitely mix things up. Cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar can add a delightful twist to the flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses melt at different rates, so choose ones that will complement the dish! Experimenting with a combination can lead to some delicious surprises!
How do I store leftovers?
If you find yourself with any leftovers (which might be a challenge because it’s so good!), simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This way, you’ll keep that crispy coating and melty cheese intact!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You bet! This stuffed chicken parmesan is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the chicken and stuff it ahead of time, then cover it and store it in the fridge for a day or two before baking. Just make sure to allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. This helps it cook evenly! It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want a delicious, homemade meal without all the last-minute fuss!
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in about 45 minutes.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of melty cheeses and savory marinara creates a mouthwatering flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish is the epitome of comforting home cooking, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out cheeses or add extra herbs to make it your own. It’s a versatile recipe that adapts to your taste!
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness and crispy coating make it a hit with kids and adults alike—who can resist that?
- Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for making ahead of time, so you can enjoy a homemade meal without the hassle on busy nights.
- Healthy Protein Boost: Packed with protein from the chicken and cheese, it’s a satisfying dish that keeps you feeling full and happy!
With all these reasons to love it, I’m sure this stuffed chicken parmesan recipe will become a staple in your kitchen just like it has in mine!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making stuffed chicken parmesan, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal experience with some fantastic side dishes! Pairing it with the right accompaniments can really take this dish to the next level. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Pasta: A classic choice! Serve it with a side of spaghetti tossed in olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of parsley. You can even add a splash of marinara to tie everything together.
- Garlic Bread: You simply can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce on your plate!
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds a fresh crunch and balances the richness of the chicken.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese makes for a delightful and refreshing side that complements the main dish beautifully.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple and healthy, steamed broccoli brings a lovely green touch to the plate. A squeeze of lemon juice over the top brightens it up nicely!
- Italian Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze create a vibrant salad that enhances the Italian flavors of your stuffed chicken.
Choose one or a combination of these sides to create a well-rounded meal that your family and friends will love. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe: 5 Reasons to Savor It
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A savory stuffed chicken parmesan recipe that combines tender chicken with rich cheese and marinara sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice a pocket in each chicken breast.
- Mix mozzarella and Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- Stuff the cheese mixture into each chicken pocket.
- Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown each chicken breast on both sides, about 5 minutes each.
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Notes
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for a few hours.
- Serve with pasta or a side salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: stuffed chicken parmesan recipe