Lighter Chicken Parmigiana Skillet
This Lighter Chicken Parmigiana Skillet reimagines a classic Italian favorite, making it healthier without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for busy moms and families, this one-dish meal combines delicious breaded chicken, a rich tomato sauce, and cheesy goodness, all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup. Packed with lean protein and vibrant flavors, it's a comforting yet nutritious option for any weeknight dinner. Get ready to enjoy a hearty meal in less than an hour!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Olive Oil
3 tablespoons (divided)
Chopped Onion
1 cup (fresh)
Garlic Cloves
2 (chopped)
Crushed Tomatoes
1 (28 ounce) can (canned)
Sugar
2 teaspoons (raw or brown)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Seasoned Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
4 (flattened)
Italian Breadcrumbs
1/3 cup (dry)
Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/3 cup (freshly grated)
Egg
1 (beaten)
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
1/4 cup (fresh)
Grated Parmesan Cheese
2 tablespoons (for topping)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes until they are fragrant and tender.
2
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and seasoned pepper to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally, then reduce heat and cover. Let it simmer to allow the flavors to meld, about 15 minutes.
3
While the sauce is simmering, place the chicken breasts between two sheets of waxed paper and gently pound them to a uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch. This not only helps with cooking but also ensures tender chicken.
4
In a shallow dish, combine the Italian breadcrumbs with 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off before coating them thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
5
In a large non-stick skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the prepared chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking them for 10-15 minutes, turning once, until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
6
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the simmering tomato sauce around the chicken in the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken breasts, then cover the skillet and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7
Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor and presentation. Serve hot for a comforting meal!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lighter Chicken Parmigiana Skillet?
It is a healthier, one-pan version of the classic Italian dish featuring breaded chicken, tomato sauce, and melted cheese.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 13 main ingredients including chicken, tomatoes, aromatics, and cheeses.
What makes this version 'lighter' than traditional chicken parm?
This version is cooked in a skillet with controlled amounts of olive oil and cheese rather than being deep-fried and heavily layered.
How long does it take to make this meal?
The entire process, including simmering the sauce and cooking the chicken, takes less than an hour.
Why should I pound the chicken breasts to 1/4 inch thickness?
Pounding the chicken ensures uniform thickness so that it cooks evenly and remains tender throughout the process.
Can I use a different type of sugar in the sauce?
Yes, the recipe suggests using either raw or brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe calls for one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes.
How do I bread the chicken?
Dip each flattened breast into a beaten egg, then coat thoroughly in a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
What is the purpose of simmering the sauce for 15 minutes?
Simmering allows the flavors of the garlic, onion, tomatoes, and seasonings to meld together properly.
Can I use a stainless steel skillet?
While a large non-stick skillet is recommended to prevent the breading from sticking, stainless steel can be used if properly heated with oil.
How long does the chicken need to cook in the skillet?
The chicken should cook for 10-15 minutes, turning once, until no longer pink in the center.
What kind of cheese is used for the topping?
The recipe uses shredded mozzarella for melting and additional grated Parmesan for the final garnish.
Do I add the sauce on top of the chicken?
No, you should pour the simmering tomato sauce around the chicken in the skillet before adding the cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for families?
Yes, it is designed for busy moms and families as a comforting yet nutritious weeknight dinner.
Can I skip the onion and garlic?
While you can skip them, they provide the aromatic base for the sauce and are highly recommended for flavor.
What is 'seasoned pepper'?
Seasoned pepper is typically a blend of black pepper with other spices like onion and garlic powder.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but they must be completely thawed and patted dry before pounding and breading.
How do I melt the mozzarella cheese?
Sprinkle the cheese over the chicken, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook for about 5 minutes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can make it gluten-free by using certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.
What should I serve with this dish?
It pairs perfectly with pasta, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.
How many chicken breasts are needed?
This recipe is designed for 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts.
Can I substitute the mozzarella?
Yes, you can use provolone or a mild white cheese if you prefer.
Is the Parmesan cheese fresh or canned?
The recipe recommends freshly grated Parmesan for the breading and topping.
How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
Allowing the excess egg to drip off and pressing the breadcrumb mixture firmly into the chicken helps it adhere.
Can I add extra herbs?
Yes, adding fresh basil or oregano to the sauce or as a garnish would enhance the Italian flavors.
How much oil is used in total?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of olive oil, divided between the sauce preparation and the chicken frying.
Does this recipe require an oven?
No, this is a stovetop-only recipe using a saucepan and a skillet.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato sauce in advance and reheat it when you are ready to cook the chicken.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven to help maintain the texture of the breading.