Make The Perfect Chicken Parmesan Without An Oven – Here’s How!
What To Know
- Place the cooked chicken breasts in a single layer in a large baking dish.
- If you don’t have a large baking dish, you can use a smaller one and cook the chicken parmesan in batches.
- Cooking the chicken in a skillet results in a crispy exterior.
Craving the mouthwatering flavors of chicken parmesan but don’t have an oven? Fear not! With this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to make a crispy and delectable chicken parmesan without the hassle of an oven.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Assembly:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the flour mixture, coating it evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the crushed tomatoes, onion, and garlic.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Chicken Parmesan
- Place the cooked chicken breasts in a single layer in a large baking dish.
- Top each chicken breast with a generous amount of the tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses.
Step 5: Cook on the Stovetop
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Place the baking dish over the pot of boiling water, making sure the water does not touch the bottom of the dish.
- Cover the dish and steam for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the chicken parmesan from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
Tips
- For extra crispiness, double-coat the chicken in the flour mixture.
- To prevent the sauce from burning, stir it occasionally while it simmers.
- If you don’t have a large baking dish, you can use a smaller one and cook the chicken parmesan in batches.
- Serve with your favorite pasta or bread for a complete meal.
Variations
- Chicken Parmesan with Spinach: Add a layer of sautéed spinach between the chicken and the sauce.
- Chicken Parmesan with Mushrooms: Sauté some mushrooms and add them to the tomato sauce.
- Chicken Parmesan with Peppers and Onions: Dice some bell peppers and onions and sauté them before adding them to the sauce.
Benefits of Making Chicken Parmesan Without an Oven
- Convenience: No need to heat up the oven, making it a quick and easy meal.
- Energy savings: Using a skillet instead of an oven saves energy.
- Compact kitchen: Ideal for those with limited kitchen space.
- Crispy texture: Cooking the chicken in a skillet results in a crispy exterior.
Summary
With this stovetop method, you can satisfy your craving for crispy and cheesy chicken parmesan without the need for an oven. Experiment with different variations to create your own unique flavor combinations. Enjoy this delicious and convenient meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: What if I don’t have a meat mallet?
A: You can use a heavy skillet or a rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts flat.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.