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Enjoy a classic Italian favorite with this effortless single serving Chicken Parmesan recipe, tailored for those cooking for one or couples seeking portion control. With its combination of simple ingredients and a quick 30-minute preparation time, you’re set for a fabulous meal that’s rich in flavor. This recipe is a perfect solution for anyone who loves hearty Italian cuisine but prefers to avoid leftovers, ensuring a deliciously satisfying experience without compromising on taste or portion size.
Enjoy this flavorful Chicken Parmesan with sautéed green beans, buttered noodles or creamy Risotto, and a slice of warm homemade French bread for a satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Efficiency: This recipe requires minimal preparation and uses easy-to-find ingredients.
- Adaptability: It’s a breeze to customize to your taste or dietary preferences.
- Perfect Portion: This single serving recipe means no worrying about leftovers or waste.
- Comforting: The result is a warm, hearty dish that’s comforting any day of the week.
- Recipe doubles well: This easy recipe can easily be doubled if you’d like to make extra. Just double the ingredient amounts and keep the baking time the same.
What Is Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan, often called Chicken Parmigiana, is a mouthwatering dish consisting of breaded chicken breast covered in marinara sauce and cheese, then baked to perfection. It’s a classic Italian-American dish that delivers comfort in every bite, making it a perennial favorite.
Despite the name, Chicken Parmesan did not originate in Parma, Italy. Instead, it’s a variant of traditional Italian dishes, such as eggplant and veal Parmigiana. It found its footing in the United States in the mid-20th century among Italian immigrants, adapting to local tastes and ingredients, and has become a staple in Italian-American cuisine.
Ingredients
- Chicken: Use a single 5 to 6-ounce boneless, skinless chicken breast for the ideal portion size. If you’ve got extra chicken, consider using them to make a small batch of Chicken Nuggets, Chicken Shawarma, or Greek Chicken.
- Breadcrumbs: Seasoned breadcrumbs are my go-to for added flavor. If you choose unseasoned, you may need to adjust the additional seasonings for taste. Both store-bought and homemade breadcrumbs work well.
- Cheese: Freshly shredded Mozzarella and Parmesan are the way to go for better melting. Pre-shredded options often contain preservatives that affect meltability.
- Seasonings: My blend includes salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning— a mix of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Missing Italian seasoning? Substitute with one or two of these herbs.
- Butter: Both salted and unsalted butter are fine to use, depending on your preference.
- Marinara sauce: Choose either store-bought or homemade Marinara sauce, or even tomato sauce, based on your convenience and taste. If you’ve got leftover sauce, use it in Chicken Tikka Masala, Lasagna Soup, and Eggplant Parmesan.
- Parsley(optional): Great for garnish, adding a burst of color and flavor.
This is just an overview of the ingredients I used and why I used them. For the full recipe please scroll down to the recipe box at the bottom of the post.
Recipe Variations
Who says classics can’t be customized? Chicken Parmesan is already a beloved dish, but there’s always room for a creative touch. Whether you’re dialing up the heat, going for extra creaminess, or accommodating dietary needs, these variations ensure your Chicken Parmesan is anything but run-of-the-mill. Here’s how you can mix it up:
- Spicy Chicken Parmesan: For those who like a little kick, add red pepper flakes to your breadcrumb mixture. It’s a simple way to turn up the heat and make the dish even more irresistible.
- Creamy Chicken Parmesan: Want a velvety texture in every bite? Consider layering ricotta cheese along with the mozzarella. The ricotta adds a creamy dimension that beautifully complements the traditional flavors.
- Low-Carb Chicken Parmesan: If you’re watching your carbs, swap out regular breadcrumbs for keto, gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds. You’ll still get that crunchy coating, just without the extra carbs.
- Vegetarian Chicken Parmesan: For a plant-based twist, use thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms instead of chicken. You’ll still enjoy the delicious cheesy and saucy flavors, just in a vegetarian-friendly way.
How To Make Chicken Parmesan For One
These step-by-step photos and instructions help you visualize how to make Chicken Parmesan. See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.
- Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Melt butter in a separate medium-sized bowl. Dip the chicken in the melted butter and coat both sides.
- Dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure both sides are well coated.
- Transfer the chicken to a lightly greased 5×7-inch baking dish and pour the remaining butter from the dish over the chicken. Bake for 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and registers between 150° to 155° F on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the chicken.
- Remove from the oven and spoon the sauce over the chicken. Top with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the chicken registers 165°F with an instant-read thermometer and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Transfer the baked Chicken Parmesan to a plate and serve with pasta, if desired and top with chopped parsley.
Note: If you’d like to enjoy a glass of wine with your meal, consider a Sangiovese, Pinot Noir, or a Barbera. In my opinion, these are the best wines to serve with Chicken Parmesan.
Expert Tips
- Start by Reviewing the Full Recipe: This quick and delicious Baked Chicken Parmesan will be a hit at your dinner table. Ensure a smooth cooking process by reading the entire recipe and preparing your ingredients before diving in.
- Choose a Low-Carb Version: If you’re watching your carb intake, simply skip the breadcrumbs. Use the seasonings specified in the recipe along with Parmesan cheese for flavor.
- Ensure Juicy Chicken: After your Chicken Parmesan comes out of the oven, cover it with aluminum foil for 5-10 minutes before serving. This locks in the juices, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.
- Stock Up on Chicken: I find it helpful to keep individually wrapped chicken pieces in my freezer. When chicken is on sale, grab some, divide, wrap, and freeze for later. It’s a time and money saver!
- Follow USDA Guidelines: To maintain optimal quality, the USDA recommends freezing chicken breasts for no longer than nine months. Don’t forget to note the “frozen on” date on your chicken packages.
- Recommended Bakeware: If you’re in need of a small 5×7-inch baking dish, check out our online store for quality options ideal for this Chicken Parmesan recipe.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to rounding out your Chicken Parmesan meal, the right side dishes can make all the difference. Whether you’re craving the comfort of pasta or looking for something on the lighter side, we’ve got you covered. Here are some serving suggestions that are just as delightful as the main event, each elevating your dining experience in its own unique way.
- Classic Spaghetti: Serve your Chicken Parmesan over a bed of al dente spaghetti. This quintessential pairing never disappoints. Add a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and a touch of basil for an extra layer of flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a lighter yet flavorful accompaniment, roast an array of seasonal vegetables like brussels sprouts or carrots. A dash of olive oil, garlic, and herbs can elevate these veggies to new heights.
- Crusty Bread: Who can resist a slice of warm homemade French bread? Perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce, it’s a comforting side that makes the meal even more indulgent.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Chicken Parmesan. Romaine lettuce, a tangy Caesar dressing, and some homemade croutons make for a simple but effective side.
- Creamy Risotto: Enjoy your Chicken Parmesan alongside a bowl of creamy risotto. The velvety texture complements the crispy chicken beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
A 5×7-inch baking dish works great for this recipe. We have some top-quality options listed on our store page for you to check out.
Absolutely! Just double the ingredients listed in the recipe to serve a larger crowd.
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, place the cooked Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a preheated 350°F oven, or simply use the microwave.
While spaghetti is a classic choice for Chicken Parmesan, you can also opt for other pasta types like rigatoni, penne, or linguine. For a lighter meal, zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash make excellent low-carb options.
Yes! Easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs in the recipe.
Definitely! Feel free to bread the chicken and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:
For examples of the dishes used at One Dish Kitchen, please visit our Store page.
If you’ve tried this easy Chicken Parmesan recipe or any recipe on One Dish Kitchen please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.
If you take a picture please tag us on Instagram (@onedishkitchen) we’d love to see it!
Chicken Parmesan For One
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese , divided
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter , melted
- 1 (6-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breast
- ¼ cup Marinara sauce
- 1 ounce Mozzarella cheese (shredded or sliced)
- Optional for topping: chopped parsley
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Melt the butter in a separate medium-sized bowl. Dip the chicken in the melted butter and coat both sides.
- Dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure both sides are well coated.
- Transfer the chicken to a lightly greased 5×7-inch baking dish and pour the remaining melted butter from the dish over the chicken. Bake for 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and registers between 150° to 155° F on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the chicken.
- Remove from the oven and spoon the sauce over the chicken. Top with mozzarella cheese and 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese.
- Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the chicken registers 165°F with an instant-read thermometer and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the chicken from the oven, cover, and let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Then, transfer the baked Chicken Parmesan to a plate and serve with pasta, if desired and top with chopped parsley.
Notes
-
- Start by Reviewing the Full Recipe: This quick and delicious Baked Chicken Parmesan will be a hit at your dinner table. Ensure a smooth cooking process by reading the entire recipe and preparing your ingredients before diving in.
-
- Choose a Low-Carb Version: If you’re watching your carb intake, simply skip the breadcrumbs. Use the seasonings specified in the recipe along with Parmesan cheese for flavor.
-
- Ensure Juicy Chicken: After your Chicken Parmesan comes out of the oven, cover it with aluminum foil for 5-10 minutes before serving. This locks in the juices, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.
-
- Stock Up on Chicken: I find it helpful to keep individually wrapped chicken pieces in my freezer. When chicken is on sale, grab some, divide, wrap, and freeze for later. It’s a time and money saver!
-
- Follow USDA Guidelines: To maintain optimal quality, the USDA recommends freezing chicken breasts for no longer than nine months. Don’t forget to note the “frozen on” date on your chicken packages.
-
- Recommended Bakeware: If you’re in need of a small 5×7-inch baking dish, check out our online store for quality options ideal for this Chicken Parmesan recipe.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
I doubled this recipe for hubby and me. He is not a fan of chicken; however, he said it was delicious at least three times during the meal. I believe it tastes better than the same dish from our local Italian restaurant. The chicken was absolutely tender. I followed the recipe exactly including the resting time. Thanks for this fantastic recipe!
This was really delicious and easy to make. I had my marinara sauce in the freezer which made the chicken parmesan extra yummy. Thank you for another wonderful recipe, Joanie!
I’m so happy you enjoyed it!
This was very good. I cooked it in my air fryer oven. Adjusted time and temp a bit but otherwise followed the recipe.
This turned out so juicy and delicious. It is the second time I made it. I had a side of fusilli pasta with my homemade tomato sauce and a simple salad. It was so good to eat a nutritious dinner. Bill doesn’t eat meat so meals are difficult. My Dad was a meat cutter in a small grocery store. We had the best of the best. Thank you so much for another great recipe, Joanie.
Kathy
Trying this tonight..never have I had it before…
Made this last night for tea.. Was delicious,
using your homemade recipe for tomato sauce.. Instead of spaghetti I made fusilli (3/4mug dry) then drained, added a heaped teaspoon of pesto, some toasted pine nuts& about 1tablesoon of parmesan then stir & serve.. It went so well with your chicken Parm Joanie..
I absolutely love your recipes and really encourage readers to try them out.. You absolutely will wish ( like me) you had tried them much sooner!
Because of your fantastic recipes, cooking for one doesn’t have to be boring or a “project”, by having to scale down all ingredients from a regular family size recipe.. Huge👍 from me..
Thank you Joanie..😊🏴
Thank you so much, Lorna!
I am planning to make this tonight. My question is: where does the Trans Fat come from in this recipe??? I saw another recipe for a white bean soup that also showed Trans Fats. I know they are small amounts, but I would still like to know. Thx!!
This was really delicious and easy. Thank you!
Kathy
Super recipe.