The Ultimate Tomato or Vodka Sauce for Chicken Parmesan

Transform your traditional chicken Parmesan into an extraordinary dish with our creamy vodka sauce variation. This elevated version combines the comfort of classic tomato or vodka sauce for chicken Parmesan that will make you forget about standard marinara forever.

The Perfect Vodka Sauce That Makes This Dish Shine

The heart of this recipe lies in its velvety vodka sauce. Unlike traditional marinara, our sauce blends heavy cream with vodka and tomatoes, creating a perfect balance of acidity and richness. Sautéed shallots and garlic provide a complex aromatic base, while pasta water (our secret ingredient!) adds the final touch that brings everything together.

Ingredient Category	Items Needed	Quantity
Chicken Base	Chicken cutlets, thinly pounded	4 pieces
	Melted butter	1/2 cup
	Seasoned breadcrumbs	2 cups
	Grated Parmesan	1 cup
	Fresh mozzarella slices	8 oz
Vodka Sauce	Shallots, finely diced	2 medium
	Garlic cloves, minced	4
	Tomato paste	6 oz
	Premium vodka	1/2 cup
	Heavy cream	1 cup
	Grated Parmesan	1/2 cup
	Pasta water (or substitute)	1/2 cup

Create the Best Tomato or Vodka Sauce for Chicken Parmesan

Start by sweating shallots until translucent, then add garlic. Once fragrant, incorporate tomato paste and let it caramelize slightly. Add vodka and reduce by half. Finish with cream, Parmesan, and pasta water for a silky-smooth sauce.

Crispy Chicken Secret Technique

Our unique breading method guarantees perfectly crispy results. Instead of the traditional egg-flour method, we brush the chicken with melted butter before coating it in a Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. This technique ensures a golden, crispy crust that stays perfectly in place.

Assembly Tips for the Perfect Tomato or Vodka Sauce for Chicken Parmesan

After quickly searing the chicken to achieve a beautiful golden color, transfer it to a baking dish. Generously coat with the vodka sauce and top with fresh mozzarella slices. A few minutes under the broiler is all it takes to achieve perfectly melted, bubbly cheese.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This elevated chicken Parmesan pairs beautifully with:

• Al dente pasta to soak up the sauce
• Light green salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts
• Crusty bread for a sandwich variation

Practical Information

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Serves: 4 people
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Chef’s Pro Tips for perfect Tomato or Vodka Sauce for Chicken Parmesan

For a non-alcoholic version, substitute vodka with chicken broth and a few drops of lemon juice. If you don’t have pasta water, use lightly salted chicken broth instead.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Share Your Creation!

We love seeing your versions of our recipes! Share your photos on Instagram using #howsweeteats and tell us how you personalized this dish. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment sharing your experience.

Recipe Variations

• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes to the sauce
• Try different cheese combinations like provolone or fontina
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra flavor
• Make mini versions for appetizers or parties

Remember, the key to this dish’s success lies in the perfect balance between the crispy chicken, creamy vodka sauce, and melty cheese. Take your time with each component, and you’ll be rewarded with a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress.

Enjoy your homemade creation!

try more delicious chicken Parmesan recipes

• Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta