Dinner Dilemma Solved: This Easy Chicken Parmesan (No Breadcrumbs) Will Save Your Weeknight
Some days, just figuring out what’s for dinner feels like running a marathon in flip-flops. And when the craving for something cheesy, comforting, and family-approved hits—but your pantry’s looking a little… minimalist—this easy chicken parmesan recipe without breadcrumbs comes to the rescue.
Whether you’re avoiding breadcrumbs on purpose (hello, gluten-free goals!) or just realized you’re out mid-recipe (been there), this skillet version has all the cozy, melty goodness of the classic—without the fuss or the crunch.
It’s fast, it’s flavorful, and it’s exactly the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen feel like a win, not a battlefield.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe Without Breadcrumbs
Let’s break it down:
- No breadcrumbs = no dredging mess.
- Just season, sear, smother, and you’re golden.
- 25-minute total time.
- That’s faster than one episode of your favorite feel-good show.
- Family-friendly and picky-eater-approved.
- (Even my “no green stuff” nephew went back for seconds.)
- Low on ingredients, high on taste.
- Everything here is fridge or pantry staple territory.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this dreamy dish (full measurements are in the recipe card below):
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Slice them in half for quicker cooking and more flavor coverage.
- Salt and pepper – Just enough to bring everything to life.
- Garlic powder + Italian seasoning – These bring all the classic comfort without needing a spice cabinet overhaul.
- Olive oil – For that golden sear.
- Marinara sauce – Pick your favorite jarred variety or go homemade if you’ve got time.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds depth and sharpness to balance the creamy mozzarella.
- Shredded mozzarella – The melt factor here is serious.
- Fresh basil or parsley – Optional, but adds a little green and a lot of charm.
NOTE: Ingredient measurements and details are just below in the recipe card!
Let’s Make It: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Thin the Chicken.
Take your chicken breasts and carefully slice them in half lengthwise—this helps them cook faster and more evenly. Pat them dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
2. Sear to Golden Goodness.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add the chicken cutlets and cook 4–5 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).
3. Sauce & Cheese Time.
Reduce the heat to low. Spoon that lovely marinara over each piece of chicken. Sprinkle with Parmesan, then pile on the mozzarella.
4. Cover & Melt.
Pop a lid on your skillet and let everything cook on low for 3–5 minutes, until the cheese is all melty, bubbly, and straight-up irresistible.
5. Garnish & Serve.
Add fresh basil or parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or even just with crusty bread and a green salad.
Quick Tips for Weeknight Success
- No lid? A baking sheet works in a pinch—just cover that skillet and let the cheese do its thing.
- Want a bit more crisp? Sear the chicken a touch longer or finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes (if your skillet’s oven-safe).
- Gluten-free bonus: This one’s naturally gluten-free without the breadcrumbs, so it’s great for guests with dietary needs.
A Little Backstory (Because Food Is Personal)
This dish became a regular in our house the year I had exactly 23 minutes to make dinner between soccer practice and Zoom calls. My oldest declared it “way better than the kind with crunchy stuff,” and I didn’t argue. It’s simple, warm, and gets dinner on the table without a meltdown—mine or theirs.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time—thighs may take a minute or two longer.
What can I serve with this?
Pasta is a classic, but rice, roasted veggies, or even a Caesar salad are all great options.
How do I store leftovers?
Pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or a low oven until warmed through.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Oh yes. Cheese, chicken, and red sauce? It’s basically a hug on a plate.
Whether it’s a busy Tuesday or a cozy weekend dinner, this easy chicken parmesan recipe without breadcrumbs is the kind of comfort food that doesn’t overcomplicate things. It keeps your kitchen mess minimal and your dinner table happy—and if you ask me, that’s the sweet spot.
Print
Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe Without Breadcrumbs
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This easy chicken parmesan recipe without breadcrumbs delivers all the rich, cheesy flavor of the classic—without the fuss or the crunch. A perfect skillet dinner ready in just 25 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food without the carbs. Gluten-free friendly and kid-approved!
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F).Add Sauce and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each piece of chicken. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top, followed by the shredded mozzarella.Melt the Cheese
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.Garnish and Serve
Top with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot with pasta, rice, or a green salad.
Notes
No breadcrumbs = naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
If your chicken breasts are thick, gently pound them to even thickness before slicing to help them cook more evenly.
For extra flavor, use fresh garlic or shallots when searing the chicken before adding sauce.
Want a crispy top? If your skillet is oven-safe, place it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes after adding cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Easy Chicken Recipes
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: easy chicken parmesan recipe without breadcrumbs, chicken parmesan no breading, gluten free chicken parm, low carb chicken dinner, skillet chicken recipe, 30 minute chicken recipes, chicken with marinara and cheese, no breadcrumb chicken parm
