Ground Chicken Parmesan
Ground Chicken Parmesan combines seasoned ground chicken, marinara, Parmesan, melted mozzarella, and buttery toasted breadcrumbs in one weeknight skillet.
Ingredients
Toasted Breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Ground Chicken Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt divided
- 4 garlic cloves roughly chopped
- 2 pounds ground chicken
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 jar marinara sauce about 26 ounces
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 fresh basil sprigs
- 1 1/2 –2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Cooked spaghetti or another pasta for serving, optional
- Fresh basil for serving, optional
Instructions
Toast the seasoned breadcrumbs:
- Melt the butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add the panko, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Spread the mixture evenly and leave it undisturbed for 30–60 seconds before stirring. Repeat until the breadcrumbs are evenly golden, then transfer them to a dry bowl.
Soften the onion and garlic:
- Return the skillet to medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the onion and 1/2 teaspoon salt, then cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Brown and season the chicken:
- Push the onion and garlic toward the outer edge of the skillet. Add the ground chicken to the center with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. Cook for 4–5 minutes, breaking the chicken into small pieces, until it is browned.
Simmer the chicken in marinara:
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Parmesan, and basil sprigs. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Confirm that the ground chicken reaches 165°F.
Melt the cheese and finish:
- Remove and discard the basil sprigs. Spread the mozzarella evenly over the chicken mixture and cook for about 2 minutes, or until melted. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with the toasted breadcrumbs, or keep the breadcrumbs separate for individual servings. Serve over cooked pasta and finish with fresh basil when desired.
CHEF’S TIP
Store the toasted breadcrumbs separately when preparing leftovers or meal-prep portions so they remain crisp.
A wide skillet prevents crowding and helps the ground chicken brown instead of steaming.
A wide skillet prevents crowding and helps the ground chicken brown instead of steaming.
CALORIES PER SERVING