Description
Homemade instant pot chicken parmesan delivers restaurant-quality comfort straight to kitchen tables with incredible speed and flavor. Crispy breaded chicken nestled in rich marinara sauce and melted cheese creates a perfect Italian-American classic that hungry families will absolutely devour.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved lengthwise
Coating Ingredients:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Create a flavor-packed coating for the chicken by combining Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Gently press panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese onto each chicken breast after dredging through flour and egg wash, ensuring a crispy exterior.
- Activate the Instant Pot’s sauté function and warm the olive oil until shimmering. Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, developing a golden-brown crust on both sides without fully cooking the interior. Transfer the partially cooked chicken to a nearby plate.
- Spread a rich marinara sauce across the Instant Pot’s base, incorporating red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. Nestle the browned chicken pieces into the sauce, ensuring they are partially submerged. Secure the lid and pressurize for five minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through while absorbing the sauce’s robust flavors.
- After releasing the pressure, unveil the lid and generously top each chicken piece with a blend of melty mozzarella and sharp Parmesan cheese. Allow the residual heat to transform the cheese into a luscious, bubbling blanket.
- Elevate the dish with a sprinkle of freshly torn basil leaves. Serve alongside your preferred accompaniment, such as al dente pasta, spiralized zucchini, or crusty garlic bread to complete this classic Italian-inspired meal.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are similar in size for even cooking, preventing dry or undercooked sections.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help breadcrumbs adhere better and create a crispier coating.
- Choose lean chicken breasts for a healthier version, trimming any visible fat before preparation.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Swap regular breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb alternative.
- Add extra red pepper flakes for heat lovers or omit completely for a milder flavor profile.
- Fresh mozzarella provides a creamier texture compared to pre-shredded cheese varieties.
- Quickly release pressure to prevent overcooking and maintain chicken’s tender, juicy texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating gently to preserve moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg