Pepperoni Chicken Parm
Pepperoni Chicken Parm is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that combines crispy, breaded chicken breasts with rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and spicy pepperoni slices. This flavorful and family-friendly dish comes together in under 30 minutes, boasting a golden crust and gooey cheesy finish that delivers comforting taste with bold layers of flavor.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin (about 1/2 inch)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 12–15 pepperoni slices
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Prepare the Chicken: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch for quick, even cooking and a tender bite. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to build flavor.
- Coat the Chicken: Set up a breading station with beaten eggs in one bowl and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in another. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, letting the excess drip off, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
- Fry for Crispy Perfection: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Carefully add the breaded chicken and cook about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Assemble with Sauce, Cheese, and Pepperoni: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the fried chicken breasts on a baking sheet or oven-safe skillet. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices.
- Bake Until Bubbly and Golden: Bake in the preheated oven about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Optionally broil 1-2 minutes to crisp the pepperoni and cheese edges.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let the Pepperoni Chicken Parm rest for a few minutes to lock in juiciness and meld flavors before serving.
Notes
- Thin chicken breasts by pounding help cook quickly and stay tender.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier crust.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan—work in batches to prevent steaming and maintain crispiness.
- Choose a quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking to keep juices locked in and cheese set.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
Keywords: Pepperoni Chicken Parm, Chicken Parmesan, Crispy Chicken, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Meal