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Pepperoni Chicken Parm

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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
  • 1215 pepperoni slices
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

Keywords: Pepperoni Chicken Parm, Chicken Parmesan, Crispy Chicken, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Meal