Freezer vs. chicken parmesan: the ultimate showdown – does it freeze well?

If you’re a fan of the delectable Italian dish, chicken parmesan, you may wonder if you can preserve its flavors by freezing it. The answer is a resounding yes! Chicken parmesan freezes exceptionally well, allowing you to enjoy its crispy crust and savory sauce at a later date.

Why Freeze Chicken Parmesan?

Freezing chicken parmesan offers several advantages:

• Meal Prepping: Prepare multiple servings in advance and freeze them for quick and easy meals during busy weeknights.
• Portion Control: Freeze individual portions to avoid overeating or waste.
• Preservation: Extend the shelf life of your chicken parmesan for up to 3 months.
• Convenience: Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without the hassle of cooking from scratch.

How to Freeze Chicken Parmesan

Freezing chicken parmesan is a simple process that requires a few steps:

1. Cook the Chicken Parmesan: Prepare the chicken parmesan according to your preferred recipe.
2. Cool Completely: Allow the chicken parmesan to cool to room temperature before freezing. This prevents ice crystals from forming.
3. Wrap Individually: Wrap each piece of chicken parmesan tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
4. Place in Freezer-Safe Container: Transfer the wrapped chicken parmesan to a freezer-safe container, such as a freezer bag or airtight container.
5. Label and Freeze: Label the container with the date and contents, and place it in the freezer.

How to Reheat Frozen Chicken Parmesan

Reheating frozen chicken parmesan is equally straightforward:

1. Thaw Overnight: Remove the chicken parmesan from the freezer and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Reheat in Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed chicken parmesan on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
3. Reheat in Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed chicken parmesan in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.

Tips for Freezing Chicken Parmesan

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, and crispy breadcrumbs will result in a better frozen dish.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will become dry and tough when frozen.
• Don’t add the cheese until after reheating: Sprinkle mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken parmesan before reheating to prevent it from becoming rubbery.
• Freeze in individual portions: This makes reheating and serving easier.
• Label and date the containers: Keep track of what’s in the freezer and when it was frozen.

Variations on Freezing Chicken Parmesan

• Freeze the sauce separately: Freeze the marinara sauce in a separate container and thaw it before reheating the chicken parmesan.
• Freeze uncooked chicken parmesan: Prepare the chicken parmesan up to the point of baking, then freeze it. When ready to eat, thaw and bake according to the instructions.
• Freeze baked chicken parmesan: Bake the chicken parmesan completely before freezing. This method provides the most convenient reheating experience.

Final Thoughts

Chicken parmesan is a delightful dish that freezes exceptionally well. By following these tips, you can preserve its flavors and enjoy it at a later time. Whether you’re meal prepping, portion controlling, or simply craving a delicious meal, freezing chicken parmesan is a great way to have a satisfying dish on hand.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: How long can I freeze chicken parmesan?
A: Chicken parmesan can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I freeze chicken parmesan with spaghetti?
A: Yes, you can freeze chicken parmesan with spaghetti. Cook the spaghetti separately and freeze it in a separate container. When reheating, add the spaghetti to the chicken parmesan and reheat together.

Q: Can I freeze chicken parmesan with breaded eggplant?
A: Yes, you can freeze chicken parmesan with breaded eggplant. Follow the same freezing instructions as for chicken parmesan.