Herbed Chicken Parmesan with Zesty Tomato Sauce

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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This Herbed Chicken Parmesan with Zesty Tomato Sauce is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. It combines crispy, herbed-coated chicken with a zingy tomato sauce, making it an irresistible dish perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion.

Ingredients for Herbed Chicken Parmesan with Zesty Tomato Sauce

The star of the show, chicken breasts, provide a lean and protein-packed base. The crispy coating comes from a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, which add a nutty, crunchy layer. Italian herbs, garlic powder, and onion powder infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors, while a hint of red pepper flakes gives a subtle kick. The marinara sauce ties everything together with its rich, tangy profile, and fresh basil adds a burst of freshness to finish the dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crunch, toast the panko breadcrumbs in a dry pan before using them.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
  • Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a good sear.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic butter pasta or a fresh green salad. For a more Italian-inspired meal, serve with roasted vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well too, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and coat it a few hours in advance, but it’s best to cook it fresh for optimal crispiness.

Herbed Chicken Parmesan with Zesty Tomato Sauce Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and get your baking sheet ready by giving it a good spray with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking. Next, set up your breading station. In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour with salt and pepper in one, beaten eggs in the second, and in the third, mix together panko, Parmesan, Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.

Now, take each chicken breast and coat it in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Dip it into the eggs, allowing any extra to drip back into the bowl, then press it into the panko mixture until well coated. This triple-layer process ensures a crispy crust.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, brown the chicken breasts on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re golden. Transfer them to your prepared baking sheet. Spoon over some marinara sauce on each piece and sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese.

Pop them into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for an aromatic finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy and flavorful coating that gives each bite a satisfying crunch.
  • Zesty tomato sauce that perfectly complements the savory chicken.
  • Quick and easy — on the table in under an hour!
  • Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients for convenient cooking.

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp dried Italian herbs
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 cups marinara sauce
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Cooking spray

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In a separate dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, mix the panko, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat in the panko mixture, pressing to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet, top each breast with marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

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