Ground Chicken Parmesan topped with cheese and herbs, served with pasta.

Ground Chicken Parmesan Recipe Fast, Easy, Flavorful

31 décembre 2025 par Chef Hanna Zest

Introduction
Quick, weeknight-friendly Ground Chicken Parmesan that melts cheese fast and keeps cleanup minimal. This version uses toasted panko for crunch and Rao’s marinara for reliable flavor so you skip extra measuring. Ready in about 30 minutes with simple pantry spices and minimal fuss. If you love quick chicken dinners, try this alongside my 20-minute Mongolian chicken for a speedy rotation.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe pares the classic down to the essentials so you get the Parmesan comfort without long prep. Using prejarred marinara saves time while still delivering bright tomato flavor. Toasting panko in butter gives real breadcrumb crunch that stands up to saucy chicken. Ground chicken cooks faster than whole pieces and absorbs seasonings evenly, which keeps the bake juicy. Fresh basil at the end lifts the dish and adds a clean finish. For a fun flavor contrast, serve with a bold side like the peanut butter and jelly chicken wings for a playful menu mix.

Flavor and Texture

The toasted panko gives a toasty, nutty crunch against soft, seasoned ground chicken. Parmesan adds savory umami while mozzarella melts into a gooey blanket that everyone loves. The marinara provides bright acidity that keeps the dish from feeling heavy. Onion and garlic give a classic aromatic base without overpowering the chicken. Dried oregano and Italian seasoning bring that familiar Italian-profile you expect in a Parmesan dish.

Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon butter (unsalted)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon onion powder
– ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 tablespoon oil
– 1 small onion (diced)
– 1 teaspoon salt (divided in half)
– 4 cloves garlic (roughly chopped)
– 2 pounds ground chicken
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 770 mL marinara sauce ((1 jar Rao’s))
– 1 cup grated parmesan
– 2 sprigs basil
– 1½ to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Step by Step Instructions

For the Toasted Breadcrumbs

1. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the panko and stir until coated in butter.
3. Sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning.
4. Toast the panko, stirring, until golden and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
5. Transfer toasted breadcrumbs to a bowl and cool.

For the Ground Chicken Parmesan

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and half of the 1 teaspoon salt and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
3. Add the roughly chopped garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the ground chicken to the skillet and break it up with a spoon.
5. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and the remaining salt over the chicken.
6. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes.
7. Stir in the marinara sauce and add the basil sprigs, bring to a simmer.
8. Mix in half the grated parmesan and remove basil sprigs.
9. Spread the chicken and sauce into a shallow baking dish or keep in the skillet if ovenproof.
10. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
11. Top with shredded mozzarella and the remaining parmesan.
12. Broil or bake at 425°F until cheese is bubbly and golden, about 5 to 7 minutes.
13. Let rest 3 minutes, garnish with basil leaves, and serve.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use a high quality jarred marinara to save time without sacrificing depth. Toast breadcrumbs in advance and store in a sealed jar for weeks. If you prefer lower effort, skip forming patties and bake the skillet mixture as a casserole instead. Use pregrated cheeses to shave prep time. A cast iron skillet that goes from stovetop to oven cuts down on dishes.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven or in the microwave covered to preserve moisture. To freeze, cool completely and freeze in a shallow container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Short Closing Note

This Ground Chicken Parmesan gives all the comfort with less time and fuss. It’s an easy weeknight winner that scales well for families or meal prep.

Conclusion

For another simple, tested take on this dish with extra notes and photos visit Ground Chicken Parmesan | Easy Chicken Recipe | Mantitlement.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.