Making The Prego Parmesan Chicken Recipe is an experience that blends simplicity with rich, comforting flavors. The recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful, golden crust of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, drenched in the tangy, rich Prego marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
The process begins by seasoning the chicken and lightly pan-frying it to a perfect crisp. As the chicken bakes with the sauce and cheese, the kitchen fills with irresistible aromas, setting the tone for a delightful meal. The people I’m preparing this for are close friends who truly appreciate home-cooked comfort food.
We chat, laugh, and sip wine while I work, creating an atmosphere full of warmth. The experience is less about cooking and more about sharing love and good times with those I cherish. The end result is a meal that brings everyone together.
Why This Prego Parmesan Chicken Recipe Is The Only One You’ll Need:
This Prego Parmesan Chicken recipe is the only one you’ll need because it combines the rich flavors of tender chicken, savory Parmesan, and the smooth, comforting taste of Prego pasta sauce. It’s quick, easy, and packed with deliciousness, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner.
With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful, satisfying dish that everyone will love, without the hassle of complicated cooking steps!
How To Prepare Prego Parmesan Chicken Recipe?
Recipe Overview
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Yield: 4 servings
Kitchen Utensils
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:
- Large skillet
- Shallow bowl (for the egg wash)
- Shallow dish or plate (for the breadcrumb mixture)
- Baking dish (for finishing in the oven)
- Tongs or spatula
- Meat mallet (optional, for tenderizing chicken)
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For this recipe, I like to keep things simple but flavorful. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of Prego Parmesan and Romano Pasta Sauce (or your favorite tomato sauce)
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (for frying)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
- 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
How To Make Prego Parmesan Chicken Recipe?
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them with a meat mallet to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). This will ensure they cook uniformly. Season both sides of the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In a shallow bowl, beat the egg. In another shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Dip each chicken breast into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well to the chicken.
Step 3: Pan-Fry the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the chicken in batches. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble in a Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of Prego Parmesan and Romano Pasta Sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the cooked chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Spoon a generous amount of the sauce over each piece of chicken, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve your Prego Parmesan Chicken with your favorite side dish, such as pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional value per serving:
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 43g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
(Please note that these values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredient brands used.)
Usage Suggestions prego Parmesan Chicken Recipe
This Prego Parmesan Chicken recipe is a simple yet delicious dish that combines crispy chicken coated in Parmesan cheese with a rich, flavorful marinara sauce. To make it, bread chicken breasts, then bake them until golden and crispy.
Top with a generous amount of Prego marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before baking again to melt the cheese. Serve this hearty meal with pasta or a side of vegetables for a satisfying dinner!
My Tips For Making prego Parmesan Chicken Recipe
1. Use Thin Chicken Breasts: For even cooking and a crispy texture, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
2. Coat Well: Dip the chicken in egg wash, then coat it generously with breadcrumbs and Parmesan to ensure a crispy, flavorful crust.
3. Pan-Fry First: Sear the chicken in a hot pan with a little oil before baking for a golden crust.
4. Use Prego Sauce Generously: Pour a good amount of Prego marinara sauce over the chicken to ensure it stays moist and flavorful while baking.
5. Top with Extra Cheese: Before baking, sprinkle some extra Parmesan or mozzarella on top for a cheesy, melty finish.
Special Notes
- Substitutions: If you prefer a lighter version, you can use grilled chicken breasts instead of frying them. You can also swap out the mozzarella cheese for a lighter variety or omit it entirely for a lower-calorie version.
- Sauce Variations: While I love the Prego Parmesan and Romano Pasta Sauce for its rich, cheesy flavor, you can also experiment with other Prego sauces, like the traditional marinara, if you prefer a more tangy option.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
How To Store Leftovers Prego Parmesan Chicken Recipe?
To store leftovers of Prego Parmesan Chicken, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven, ensuring it’s heated through before serving.
Conclusion
I absolutely love making this Prego Parmesan Chicken because it’s a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dish that comes together in under an hour. The crispy chicken, combined with the rich, cheesy sauce, creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Whether you’re having a busy week or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. So, the next time you’re craving a delicious, savory dinner, give this recipe a try you won’t regret it!
Enjoy cooking and indulging in this Italian-American classic!
