Name: Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 3 c. tomato sauce, divided; 1½ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Sea salt and black pepper; 1 c. all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs; 1/3 c. water; 1½ c. panko breadcrumbs; 1 T. Italian seasoning; 1¼ c. Parmesan cheese, fresh grated, divided; 2 T. extra virgin olive oil, divided; 6 oz. fresh Mozzarella, sliced; 1 16-oz. box spaghetti; Fresh basil, chopped; Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

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Indulge your taste buds with the comforting, Italian-inspired Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti. This classic dish combines tender, breaded chicken breasts, layered with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, served atop a bed of perfectly al dente spaghetti.

Whether you’re looking to impress your family at dinner or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and gourmet flavor that will leave you feeling like a five-star chef in your own kitchen.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Easy to Prepare: Even if you’re not an expert in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe straightforward to follow. The ingredients are simple and easy to source, making this dish an accessible choice for a delicious meal.
Versatile: This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a romantic meal, or even a solo culinary adventure. Regardless of the occasion, Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti fits the bill.
Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and carbs from the spaghetti, this balanced meal will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Restaurant Quality: The fusion of flavors from the tangy marinara sauce, creamy mozzarella, and crispy chicken will transport you to an Italian bistro, right from your home kitchen.

Chicken Parmesan spaghetti on a plate with a fork beside it and the baking dish in the background

Ingredients

Tomato sauce
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Sea salt and black pepper
All-purpose flour
Large eggs
Water
Panko breadcrumbs
Italian seasoning
Parmesan cheese
Extra virgin olive oil
Fresh Mozzarella
Box spaghetti

Optional, to serve:

Fresh basil
Parmesan cheese

Grab the full ingredients details and instructions in the recipe card below!

Substitutions and Additions

Chicken breasts: If you prefer a different type of protein, turkey breasts or tofu can also work well in this recipe. If you’re a fish fan, try substituting the chicken with a white fish fillet like cod or haddock.
Panko breadcrumbs: If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, almond flour or crushed gluten-free cornflakes can step in for panko breadcrumbs. For a different texture, use traditional breadcrumbs or crushed croutons.
Mozzarella: If you prefer a different type of cheese, provolone would melt well and provide a slightly different flavor. For a vegan alternative, opt for a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Spaghetti: If you prefer a different type of pasta, fettuccine or penne can be a good match. For a low-carb version, use spaghetti squash or spiralized zucchini (zoodles).

Instructions

Position the top oven rack in the center and preheat the oven to 425ºF. Take a 9”x13” baking dish and pour one cup of tomato sauce, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Set aside for later use.

Prepare the chicken

Take breasts and position them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them until they reach a thickness of approximately ½ inch. Remove the top sheet of plastic wrap and discard it. Now, season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences, and set them aside for later use.

Place the flour on a shallow, rimmed plate, then whisk the eggs and water together in a large, wide bowl. Set it aside for later use.

Mix the coating

In a separate shallow, rimmed plate, combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and a quarter cup of Parmesan cheese. Season with desired amounts of salt and black pepper, gently stirring until well-combined. Set aside for later use.

Bread each chicken breast by first lightly dredging in the flour and then coating in the egg wash. Gently shake off any excess flour or egg mixture before moving to the next step.

Gently press each chicken breast into the bread crumb mixture, ensuring thorough coating on both sides. Once coated, transfer the breasts to a large plate and set aside. Repeat this process until all the chicken breasts are evenly breaded.

Cook the chicken

In a large, high-sided skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add half of the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until they are lightly browned on each side, approximately 4-5 minutes per side.

Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to a baking dish and arrange it in a single layer. Repeat this process with the remaining olive oil and chicken.

Place the sliced Mozzarella on top of the browned chicken breasts, ensuring an even layer. Then, generously spread the remaining tomato sauce across the surface.

Bake the dish

Even distribute the remaining grated Parmesan cheese on the surface of the dish. Carefully transfer the baking dish into the preheated oven. Allow it to bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.

While chicken is baking, follow the instructions on the spaghetti package to prepare it. Once cooked, drain and rinse the spaghetti, setting it aside until ready to serve.

Serve and enjoy!

Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Divide the spaghetti among individual serving plates, placing a delectable cheesy chicken breast and a generous amount of sauce on each plate. For added flavor, if desired, garnish with fresh basil and/or Parmesan cheese.

Recipe tips

To ensure optimal juiciness, avoid overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F.
For a more flavorful dish, consider marinating the chicken before breading. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs can elevate the taste significantly.
Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This will help achieve a golden, crispy crust.
For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken instead of frying. This will reduce the oil content while still maintaining a great texture and flavor.
You can personalize the dish further by adding some veggies to the pasta, like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. This adds color and additional nutritional value.
If you have any leftover sauce, you can refrigerate it and use it for another dish. It goes well with other pasta dishes or as a pizza sauce.
If you’re serving this to guests, prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before baking. This way, you can serve it hot and fresh.

Storage & reheating

To store the chicken Parmesan and spaghetti, let it cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken Parmesan. Pack it in a freezer-safe container, ensuring the sauce covers the chicken to prevent it from drying out, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the spaghetti as it can become mushy when reheated.

To reheat, if it’s stored in the refrigerator, warm it up in the microwave for a couple of minutes, or until heated through. If it’s been frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For a crispier chicken crust, you can reheat in the oven at 375ºF until hot and bubbly.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Certainly, chicken thighs can be a great substitute for chicken breasts. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just bear in mind that cooking times may vary.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes. Replace the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour, and ensure that the pasta you are using is gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken up until the baking stage and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the cheese and sauce, and bake as per the instructions.

What can I serve alongside Chicken Parmesan and Spaghetti?

Chicken Parmesan and Spaghetti is a hearty dish that pairs well with a crisp salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.

Can I freeze the baked Chicken Parmesan with sauce and cheese on it?

Yes, you can. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to freeze the breaded and fried chicken without the sauce and cheese, add those when you’re ready to serve.