As a busy working professional, I am always on the lookout for quick and easy weeknight dinner recipes that are also delicious and satisfying. That’s why I was thrilled when I came across the Weeknight Skillet Chicken Parmesan recipe. Not only is it a family favorite, but it also checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight meal – it’s quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful. In this article, I will share my personal experience with this recipe and why I believe it deserves a spot on your dinner table.

Why This Recipe Works

There are several reasons why this recipe stands out and has become a staple in my household. Here are a few key reasons:

• The use of a skillet makes the cooking process faster and easier, with less clean-up.
• The combination of crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• The addition of Italian seasoning and garlic powder adds depth and complexity to the dish.
• The use of chicken breasts instead of traditional chicken cutlets makes this recipe more budget-friendly without compromising on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
5. In a third shallow dish, mix together the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Coat each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
7. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a baking sheet. Top each chicken breast with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve hot.

Pro tip: To make this recipe even quicker, you can use store-bought breaded chicken cutlets instead of breading the chicken yourself. Simply cook the cutlets in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side, then top with marinara sauce and cheese and bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes.

My Pro Tips for Success

• For extra crispy chicken, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of Italian breadcrumbs.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
• To make this recipe healthier, you can use whole wheat flour and low-fat cheese.
• If you have leftovers, you can use the chicken to make a delicious chicken parmesan sandwich the next day.

What I Serve With This Recipe

• Spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• Garlic bread or a side salad
• Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant

FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. You can also make the entire dish ahead of time and reheat it in the oven before serving.

Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze this recipe before baking it. Just make sure to thaw it completely before baking.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses.

Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table

This Weeknight Skillet Chicken Parmesan recipe is not only quick and easy to make, but it also delivers on flavor and satisfaction. The combination of crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese is a crowd-pleaser and will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that will save you time and effort without compromising on taste.

Your Turn

I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as my family does. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try in the comments below. Happy cooking!