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What’s For Dinner? (#112) | Shortcut Chicken Parmesan | Easy Family Dinner Ideas!
As the day winds down and hunger sets in, preparing a delicious dinner can feel daunting, especially after a long day. If you’re seeking a quick, mouth-watering meal that the whole family will love, look no further than Shortcut Chicken Parmesan! This recipe offers all the flavors of traditional chicken Parmesan but cuts down on preparation time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Why Shortcut Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that brings the family together. It combines tender chicken breasts, zesty marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser among both kids and adults. However, the traditional recipe often involves breading the chicken, frying it, and layering it with cheese and sauce— a process that can be time-consuming.
Shortcut Chicken Parmesan streamlines this process without sacrificing flavor, allowing you to spend more time with your family and less time in the kitchen. You can whip this dish up in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for “What’s for dinner?”
Ingredients
For this easy family dinner, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Heat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown.
Step 2: Add Sauce and Cheese
- Top with Marinara: Once the chicken is browned, pour marinara sauce over each breast, spreading it evenly.
- Cheese It Up: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan generously over the sauce.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake the Dish: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional: For an extra golden topping, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Plate It Up: Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
- Serve: Serve your Shortcut Chicken Parmesan alongside a mixed greens salad, garlic bread, or pasta for a complete dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Quick Tips
- Meal Prep: If you know you’ll have a busy week ahead, prepare the chicken ahead of time. Season and freeze the breasts, then simply thaw and bake as directed when you’re ready to eat.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some vegetables by layering spinach or sautéed zucchini under the sauce.
- Make It a Sub: For a fun twist, place the chicken on a hoagie roll, add extra sauce and cheese, and broil for a delicious Chicken Parmesan sub!
Final Thoughts
Shortcut Chicken Parmesan is not just a dish; it’s a time-saving solution that brings comfort food to your dinner table in no time. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this simple recipe invites family members to engage in the mealtime experience, creating lasting memories. So, next time the dinner question arises, whip up this easy Chicken Parmesan and watch as your family’s faces light up with joy!
Happy cooking!
