Chicken Parmesan without Marinara Sauce (Easy Recipe)

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that is loved by many.

However, if you’re not a fan of marinara sauce or simply want to switch things up, this Chicken Parmesan without Marinara Sauce recipe is perfect for you.

It still has all the delicious flavors of traditional Chicken Parmesan but with a different twist.

Chicken Parmesan without Marinara Sauce

Skip the traditional marinara sauce and try this alternative Chicken Parmesan recipe.

It’s a great way to enjoy this beloved dish with a different flavor profile.

It’s also a simple and easy recipe to make. You’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.

Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

• 6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
• 1/4 cup butter (for melting in the pan)

For the Parmesan Breading:

• 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Milk Dip:

• 1/4 cup milk

For the Butter Sauce:

• 1/4 cup butter (melted)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Paprika

How To Make Chicken Parmesan without Marinara Sauce

Follow these steps to make this recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the dry bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper for the Parmesan breading.
3. Dip each chicken breast into milk, then coat with the Parmesan breading mixture, pressing it onto the chicken to ensure it sticks.
4. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Transfer the partially cooked chicken breasts to a baking dish. Pour the melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice mixture over the chicken.
6. Sprinkle the chicken with paprika for added color and flavor.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
8. Serve your meal hot and enjoy!

For the complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions, please see the recipe card below.

Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan

To ensure the best results for your dish, here are some helpful tips:

1. Pound the chicken breasts: If your chicken breasts are thick, it’s a good idea to pound them to an even thickness before breading and cooking. This will help ensure that the chicken cooks evenly.
2. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For the best flavor, it’s recommended to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged grated Parmesan. The freshly grated cheese will have a stronger and more distinct flavor.
3. Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the breaded chicken breasts, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This allows for even browning and crispiness. Cook in batches if needed.
4. Adjust the cooking time: The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked chicken.
5. Add extra herbs and spices: Feel free to add additional herbs and spices to the Parmesan breading mixture to customize the flavor to your liking. Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or dried basil are all great options to enhance the taste.

Recipe Variations

While this recipe is delicious as it is, you can always experiment with different variations to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

1. Pesto Chicken Parmesan: Instead of using butter sauce, spread a layer of pesto sauce on top of the breaded chicken breasts before baking. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake until melted and golden.
2. Buffalo Chicken Parmesan: After breading the chicken breasts, dip them in buffalo sauce before cooking. Serve with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks for a spicy twist on Chicken Parmesan.
3. Mediterranean Chicken Parmesan: Replace the Parmesan cheese with feta cheese in the breading mixture and top the cooked chicken with diced tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of oregano.
4. Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan: Use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in the breading mixture to make a gluten-free version of this recipe.

Feel free to get creative and modify the recipe according to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

What to Serve With Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. Here are some popular options:

• Pasta: Serve the Chicken Parmesan on a bed of spaghetti or any other pasta of your choice. Toss the pasta with olive oil, garlic, and some grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs nicely with the richness of the Chicken Parmesan. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemony dressing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, zucchini, or carrots, are a healthy and colorful addition to your plate. Toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and slightly caramelized.
• Garlic Bread: Soft and garlicky bread is the perfect accompaniment to Chicken Parmesan. You can make your own garlic bread or purchase a pre-made one from the store.

Choose your favorite side dishes to complement the flavors.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:

1. Refrigeration: Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: If you want to store the Chicken Parmesan for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. Reheating: To reheat the refrigerated or frozen Chicken Parmesan, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a microwave or stovetop to reheat the chicken, but the oven will give you the best results for maintaining the crispy coating.

Note: The texture may change slightly after reheating, and the breading may not be as crispy as when freshly cooked.