Make Ahead Chicken Parmesan: The Secret to Effortless Family Dinners on Busy Nights!

Make-Ahead Freezer Chicken Parmesan

If your family adores chicken Parmesan but the thought of making it from scratch on hectic school nights seems daunting, worry no more. This delicious Make-Ahead Freezer Chicken Parmesan recipe allows you to prepare this beloved dish in advance. You can freeze chicken and all necessary components like sauce and cheese, enabling you to whip up a delectable dinner swiftly. Serve it up with pasta and a Caesar salad, and you have a hearty meal ready!

Yield

This recipe yields 4 servings. Here’s a breakdown of the cooking process:

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 40 mins
• Additional Time: 20 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins

Ingredients for Make-Ahead Chicken Parmesan

• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/3 cup Italian-style seasoned bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions to Prepare Make-Ahead Chicken Parmesan

Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow bowl, beat the egg thoroughly.
3. In another dish, mix the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, ensuring it’s adequately coated.
5. Next, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it to adhere.

Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little vegetable oil for frying.
2. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Transfer them to a baking dish.

Assemble and Freeze the Make-Ahead Chicken Parmesan

1. Pour the tomato sauce over the chicken.
2. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
3. Cover the dish tightly with foil.
4. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat and Serve

1. When ready to enjoy, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake the chicken, covered, for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

How to Keep Chicken Parmesan From Getting Soggy

To ensure your Make-Ahead Chicken Parmesan stays crispy, avoid reheating it in the microwave. Instead, use the oven method as outlined above. This maintains the integrity of the breadcrumbs, resulting in a deliciously crisp crust.

Healthier Cooking Methods

For a healthier twist, consider baking the chicken instead of frying it in oil. Place breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for approximately 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown and cooked through. This method reduces the use of oil, thus lowering the calorie content of this dish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Make-Ahead Freezer Chicken Parmesan is a stress-free solution for busy nights when time is of the essence. By preparing it in advance, you ensure a quick and delightful meal that rivals any restaurant offering. Plus, experimenting with alternative cooking methods provides a guilt-free yet satisfying experience, suitable for any family’s tastes. Try this easy make-ahead meal and indulge in the sumptuousness without the stress!