Grilled Chicken Parmesan
User Reviews
4.2
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
430 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Grilled Chicken Parmesan
Description
This recipe starts by seasoning chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano and then searing them in olive oil over medium to medium-low heat for a total of about eight minutes. The partially cooked chicken is transferred to a baking dish spread with marinara sauce. Each piece is topped with basil pesto and additional marinara sauce to create layers of tomato and herb flavor. Finally, parmesan and mozzarella cheese are sprinkled over the chicken before baking at 375°F until the cheeses meld and turn slight golden.
The grilling step provides a firm, slightly charred exterior that contrasts nicely with the melted cheese and tomato sauce topping. Combining basil pesto on the chicken adds a nutty, herbal depth that complements the tomato and cheeses. This dish can be served alongside pasta, bread, or a simple salad, making it a versatile main course with familiar Italian-American flavors.
Fresh chicken breasts cut lengthwise help the pieces cook faster and more evenly. Using store-bought marinara works well when supplemented with basil pesto for added flavor. The recipe can be prepared ahead and frozen or stored refrigerated for several days, and baking times may be adjusted if chicken breasts are left whole.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breast boneless skinless chicken breasts ( about 2 pounds, boneless
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 marinara sauce batch of quick homemade
- 4 teaspoons basil pesto
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
Notes
- Slice chicken breasts lengthwise to cook faster and more evenly.
- Increase cooking time on each side by 3 minutes if breasts are not sliced.
- Add garlic or onion powder to seasoning for additional flavor if desired.
- If using store-bought marinara sauce, stir in a teaspoon of basil pesto to enhance the taste.
- This dish can be prepared in advance and frozen up to three months, or refrigerated for up to four days.
- For variation, bake the chicken parmesan in individual ramekins rather than a single dish.