Save A flavorful twist on classic chicken parmesan, this recipe features juicy breaded chicken breasts layered with fresh basil pesto, marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It is a perfect choice for an easy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests looking for something a bit different than the traditional version.
Save The herbaceous notes of the pesto beautifully balance the sweetness of the marinara. By browning the chicken in a skillet before baking, you lock in the juices and ensure the breading stays golden and flavorful under the blanket of melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Step 3
- Set up a breading station: place flour on one plate, beat eggs in a shallow dish, and place breadcrumbs on another plate.
- Step 4
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
- Step 5
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. (Chicken will finish cooking in the oven.)
- Step 6
- Transfer browned chicken breasts to a baking dish.
- Step 7
- Spread 1–2 tablespoons pesto over each chicken breast. Spoon a few tablespoons of marinara sauce on top of the pesto.
- Step 8
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over each piece.
- Step 9
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 10
- Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure you use a meat mallet or rolling pin to achieve an even thickness, which is crucial for even baking. Using a high-quality skillet for the initial sear will provide the best golden-brown color before the chicken goes into the baking dish.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra crunch, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs for the regular Italian breadcrumbs. If you have dietary restrictions, this recipe can be easily adapted by using gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Serviervorschläge
This Pesto Chicken Parmesan is best served hot, ideally accompanied by pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh side salad. Be mindful of allergens as this dish contains wheat, eggs, milk, and potentially tree nuts from the pesto.
Save Garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving to add a final pop of color and aroma. This dish is sure to become a repeat favorite in your household for its incredible depth of flavor and simple preparation.
Kitchen Help
- → Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes, to make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour and Italian breadcrumbs with their gluten-free equivalents. The rest of the preparation remains the same.
- → How long do leftovers keep?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture and flavor when reheating, use an oven or toaster oven rather than a microwave.
- → What are good accompaniments for this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Traditional choices include pasta (like spaghetti or penne), garlic bread, or a simple fresh green salad to balance the richness.
- → Can I use homemade pesto and marinara?
Absolutely! Using your favorite homemade basil pesto and marinara sauce will significantly enhance the overall flavor profile of this dish, bringing a fresh and personalized touch.
- → How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?
To guarantee the chicken is safely cooked, ensure its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. This typically takes 15–20 minutes in the oven after browning.
- → Is there a way to make the crust extra crispy?
For an extra crispy crust, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular Italian breadcrumbs. Panko flakes are larger and provide a lighter, crunchier texture when cooked.