Chicken Patty Parmesan
Chicken Patty Parmesan is a delightful twist on the classic chicken parmesan, combining the savory goodness of ground chicken with a crispy exterior and gooey melted cheese. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table, whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends. With its golden crust and rich marinara sauce, Chicken Patty Parmesan is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth to the heart and satisfaction to the palate.
Why It’s My Go-To
This dish has stolen my heart for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors in Chicken Patty Parmesan is simply irresistible. The ground chicken is juicy and tender, while the crispy breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch. Topped with marinara and melted cheese, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, from pasta to salads, making it a staple in my kitchen.
Ingredients at a Glance
To create this delicious Chicken Patty Parmesan, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup finely diced yellow or sweet onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup dried bread crumbs
- 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Essential Tools for Success
Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. Here are some essentials for making Chicken Patty Parmesan:
- Large skillet: Ideal for frying the chicken patties to golden perfection.
- Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients easily and efficiently.
- Spatula: Essential for flipping the chicken patties without breaking them.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts for the best results.
- Baking dish: Perfect for assembling and baking the chicken patties with sauce and cheese.
Chicken Patty Parmesan Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by finely dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. These aromatics will add a depth of flavor to your chicken patties.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Chicken Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, beaten egg, milk, bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Step 4: Form the Patties
Using your hands, shape the chicken mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. This recipe should yield around 4-6 patties, depending on your preferred size.
Step 5: Cook the Patties
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked patties to a baking dish.
Step 6: Prepare the Marinara Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the marinara sauce and tomato paste. Heat over low heat until warmed through. Pour the sauce over the chicken patties in the baking dish.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and additional grated parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce-covered patties.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the chicken patties for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
Dietary Customizations
If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some easy customizations for Chicken Patty Parmesan:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the dried bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and replace the milk with almond milk or another dairy-free option.
- Low-Carb: Replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb version.
- Add Veggies: Mix in finely grated zucchini or carrots for added nutrition and moisture.
If You’re Curious
Chicken Patty Parmesan is not just a delicious meal; it also has a rich history rooted in Italian-American cuisine. The classic chicken parmesan typically uses breaded chicken breasts, but this innovative version with patties makes it more accessible and quicker to prepare. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use ground chicken, which is often more affordable than other meats. If you’re looking for a new family favorite, this recipe is sure to deliver!
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
Chicken Patty Parmesan is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Common Questions
Can I use other types of ground meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even pork can be used in place of ground chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat’s fat content.
What can I serve with Chicken Patty Parmesan?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it over zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties and the marinara sauce ahead of time. Assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
How do I know when the chicken patties are cooked through?
The best way to ensure the patties are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut one open to check that it’s no longer pink inside.
Bring It to the Table
Now that you have all the steps to create this mouthwatering Chicken Patty Parmesan, it’s time to bring it to the table! Serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Your guests will be impressed by the delicious flavors and beautiful presentation. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite of this delightful Chicken Patty Parmesan!
Chicken Patty Parmesan
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by finely dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. These aromatics will add a depth of flavor to your chicken patties.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, beaten egg, milk, bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Using your hands, shape the chicken mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. This recipe should yield around 4-6 patties, depending on your preferred size.
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked patties to a baking dish.
- In a small saucepan, combine the marinara sauce and tomato paste. Heat over low heat until warmed through. Pour the sauce over the chicken patties in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and additional grated parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce-covered patties.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the chicken patties for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Add finely grated zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition.
- These patties can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
