Ground Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Introduction
This Ground Chicken Parmesan is a flavorful twist on the classic dish, combining tender ground chicken with rich marinara, melted cheese, and crispy toasted breadcrumbs. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ teaspoon salt (for breadcrumbs)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (for breadcrumbs)
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder (for breadcrumbs)
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- 2 pounds ground chicken
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for chicken)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (for chicken)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 770 mL marinara sauce (about 1 jar of Rao’s)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 sprigs fresh basil
- 1½ to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large, non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the panko breadcrumbs, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning. Spread the breadcrumbs in an even layer and leave them undisturbed for 30 seconds to 1 minute before stirring. Repeat this process 2 to 3 times until the breadcrumbs are golden and toasted. Set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and half of the salt (½ teaspoon), sautéing for 2 minutes. Add the chopped garlic and cook for another minute.
- Step 3: Push the onion and garlic to the side of the skillet. Add the ground chicken, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and dried oregano. Brown the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Step 4: Pour in the marinara sauce, then add the grated parmesan and basil sprigs. Stir to combine and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Step 5: Remove the basil sprigs and discard them. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
- Step 6: Serve the chicken parmesan topped with the toasted breadcrumbs, either sprinkled on top or added to individual servings. Pair with spaghetti or your favorite pasta, and garnish with extra basil if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder in the chicken mixture.
- Substitute ground turkey or lean beef if you prefer a different protein.
- Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- If you like a crispier topping, toast the breadcrumbs just before serving.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating at high heat to prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and toast the breadcrumbs in advance. Store them separately and assemble just before serving to keep the breadcrumbs crisp.
What pasta pairs best with Ground Chicken Parmesan?
This dish goes well with spaghetti, penne, or any pasta shape that holds sauce nicely. Choose your favorite or what you have on hand.
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Ground Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A delicious and comforting Ground Chicken Parmesan recipe featuring tender ground chicken simmered in marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella, parmesan, and toasted seasoned panko breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch. Ready in 30 minutes and perfect served over pasta.
Ingredients
Toasted Breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Ground Chicken Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided in half
- 4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- 2 pounds ground chicken
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 770 mL marinara sauce (1 jar Rao’s)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 sprigs fresh basil
- 1½ to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a large non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter, then add the panko breadcrumbs, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Spread the breadcrumbs evenly and leave undisturbed for 30 seconds to 1 minute before stirring. Repeat 2 to 3 times until toasted golden brown. Set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and ½ teaspoon salt; sauté for 2 minutes. Add chopped garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Cook the Ground Chicken: Push onions and garlic to the side of the skillet and add ground chicken, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. Brown the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour in the marinara sauce, add grated parmesan and basil sprigs. Stir and simmer for 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Finish with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Remove basil sprigs and discard. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top and cook for 2 minutes until melted. Finally, sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs on top or add them to individual servings as preferred. Serve over spaghetti or your favorite pasta, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Notes
- For extra crispy breadcrumbs, watch closely to avoid burning during toasting.
- You can substitute ground turkey or beef if preferred.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the melted cheese and crunchy topping at its best.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently to retain texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Ground Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Parmesan, Easy Chicken Parmesan, Italian Recipes, Quick Dinner, Ground Chicken Recipes, Parmesan Cheese Recipe
