If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from a close friend, the Chicken Bellagio Recipe is just the ticket. This indulgent yet comforting meal combines tender chicken breast coated in a crispy Parmesan-crusted layer, wrapped in crispy prosciutto, and smothered in a luscious creamy marinara sauce boosted with gooey mozzarella. It’s a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for both a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests. Once you try this Chicken Bellagio Recipe, it’s destined to become one of your most beloved go-to meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in delivering the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color for this recipe. From the crispy coating to the creamy sauce, everything works together beautifully.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The foundation for this dish, providing tender and juicy meat.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create the first layer of coating that enables crispiness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle kick and balances the richness.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as a binding agent to ensure the breadcrumbs stick evenly.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Offers crunch and golden color to the chicken crust.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides the perfect medium for crisping the chicken and prosciutto.
- 4 slices prosciutto: Adds savory saltiness and a delicate crisp texture that elevates the dish.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Brings a rich tomato base with a sweet acidity for the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and indulgent.
- 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese: Melts over the top for gooey, cheesy perfection.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: Adds a pop of fresh color and herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Chicken Bellagio Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This step ensures even cooking and tender results. Then, in a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the chicken breasts in this mixture, evenly coating them in the flavorful flour blend that will form the base of the crispy crust.
Step 2: Coat with Egg and Breadcrumbs
Next, dip the floured chicken breasts into the beaten eggs. This wet layer helps the breadcrumbs stick beautifully. Coat the chicken in crumbs thoroughly, making sure each piece has a nice, even breaded surface that will crisp up perfectly in the pan.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. When the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until both sides turn golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. This step locks in the juices and delivers a heavenly crunchy crust.
Step 4: Crisp the Prosciutto
Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, add prosciutto slices. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until they become crisp and slightly caramelized. This quick step adds a smoky, salty crunch that balances the creamy sauce to come.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
To the skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and heavy cream. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and come together into a rich, luscious coating for the chicken.
Step 6: Assemble and Finish
Place the cooked chicken breasts back on a plate. Top each with crispy prosciutto slices, then spoon the creamy marinara sauce over the top. Generously sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over the assembled dish. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for that final vibrant touch.
How to Serve Chicken Bellagio Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a must here, bringing a burst of color and bright herbal notes that cut through the richness. For an extra flourish, you could add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to enhance the flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement but don’t overwhelm. Think garlic roasted asparagus, buttery mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette. Each offers a different texture and freshness that invites balance to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, slice the chicken breasts on a diagonal and fan them out like a flower on the plate. Spoon the creamy sauce artfully around and over the slices, then place the prosciutto crisps atop. A sprinkling of julienned basil or microgreens adds elegance, perfect for serving guests or a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Chicken Bellagio Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To preserve texture, keep the sauce separate if possible, and reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.
Freezing
This recipe can be frozen, but because of the creamy sauce and prosciutto, texture may change slightly. Freeze cooked chicken breasts wrapped in foil or in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Add a splash of cream or marinara sauce to moisten if needed, and avoid microwaving if you want to retain the crispness of the coating and prosciutto.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used for this Chicken Bellagio Recipe. They offer more juiciness but may require slightly different cooking times to ensure doneness.
Is prosciutto necessary for the recipe?
While prosciutto adds a wonderful salty crispness, you can omit it or substitute with thin slices of ham or bacon if preferred, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer, and use a vegan cheese alternative to keep it creamy and satisfying.
How do I get the chicken crust extra crispy?
Make sure your pan and oil are hot before cooking the chicken, and avoid overcrowding the skillet. This allows the chicken to sear properly and create that sought-after crispiness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the Chicken Bellagio Recipe reheats well and makes a fantastic meal prep option, especially when paired with easy sides that store and reheat nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Bellagio Recipe is truly a treasure to have in your culinary repertoire. It looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make, combining familiar ingredients in a way that feels special every time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a loved one, or hosting friends, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance. Give it a try—you’ll soon understand why it’s a family favorite for so many!
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Chicken Bellagio Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Chicken Bellagio is a delightful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender, breaded chicken breasts topped with crispy prosciutto and a creamy marinara sauce, finished with melted mozzarella and fresh basil. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines savory flavors and a rich texture that make it a family favorite perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Toppings and Sauce
- 4 slices prosciutto
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. In a shallow dish, combine flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the chicken breasts in this flour mixture, coating them evenly.
- Coat chicken: In a separate dish, beat the eggs thoroughly. Dip the floured chicken breasts into the beaten eggs, then coat them well with breadcrumbs to create a crispy exterior.
- Cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes per side.
- Add prosciutto: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the prosciutto slices to the same skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until they become crisp and slightly caramelized.
- Make sauce: Pour marinara sauce and heavy cream into the skillet with the crisp prosciutto. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
- Assemble: Place the cooked chicken breasts on individual serving plates. Top each with the crispy prosciutto slices, then spoon over the creamy marinara sauce. Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant finish.
Notes
- Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Cooking the prosciutto until crisp adds a nice texture contrast to the dish.
- You can substitute marinara sauce with your favorite tomato sauce if desired.
- Serve this dish with a side of pasta or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
