Cooking Costco Parmesan Chicken at home is an easy way to enjoy a classic Italian-inspired dish without the hassle. Whether you use the oven or the air fryer, this recipe delivers crispy, cheesy chicken with rich tomato sauce. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of cooking Costco parmesan chicken using both methods.
Why Choose Costco Parmesan Chicken?
Costco’s parmesan chicken is a convenient, pre-prepared option that combines tender chicken breast with a crispy coating of parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. This dish offers a quick, delicious meal that’s great for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Here’s why Costco’s version is a standout:
- Quick to Prepare: It’s ready to cook straight from the freezer.
- Great Taste: The combination of crispy breading, juicy chicken, and rich tomato sauce is hard to beat.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: You can bake it in the oven or air fry it for a quicker, crispy texture.
Ingredients of Costco Parmesan Chicken
Understanding what goes into your meal is essential. Costco’s parmesan chicken includes chicken breast meat, wheat crumbs, tomato sauce, and a blend of parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. The flavor comes from a careful balance of garlic, onion, and spices, ensuring each bite is packed with savory goodness.
Ingredient Breakdown:
- Chicken breast fillet
- Parmesan and mozzarella cheese blend
- Tomato sauce
- Wheat crumbs
- Garlic and onion powder
- Spices (dried herbs, salt, and pepper)
Preparing Costco Parmesan Chicken: Oven and Air Fryer Instructions
Whether you’re a fan of traditional oven-baked meals or want to experiment with the air fryer, cooking Costco parmesan chicken is straightforward. Here are the step-by-step instructions for both methods.
Oven Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Prepare the Chicken: Remove all packaging from the chicken and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken for 30-35 minutes. You want it golden brown with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let it Rest: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Air Fryer Instructions:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 188°C (370°F).
- Arrange the Chicken: Remove the packaging and place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook the Chicken: Air fry for 20 minutes without turning. Check the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Parmesan Chicken Every Time
Getting your Costco parmesan chicken just right every time takes a little extra attention. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Use a Food Thermometer: Always check the internal temperature. It should be 165°F (74°C) before serving.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: If baking multiple pieces, make sure they are not touching to allow even cooking.
- Let it Rest: Always let your chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices, making it more tender.
- Experiment with Sauces: Although the chicken comes with tomato sauce, you can add extra marinara or even alfredo sauce for variation.
Serving Suggestions for Costco Parmesan Chicken
Costco parmesan chicken pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Consider these serving ideas to create a well-rounded meal:
- Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of spaghetti with extra marinara sauce for a classic chicken parmesan experience.
- Salad: A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a healthy, flavorful side.
Storing Leftovers: How to Keep Costco Parmesan Chicken Fresh
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them safely:
- Refrigeration: Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked parmesan chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes to retain its crispy texture.
Nutritional Information: What You’re Eating
Here’s the general nutritional breakdown for one serving of Costco parmesan chicken. Keep in mind that the exact values might vary slightly depending on the size of each piece.
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 620mg
This meal is relatively balanced, providing a good source of protein while keeping trans fats and saturated fats low. It’s perfect for a filling, delicious dinner without feeling too indulgent.
Variations to Try with Costco Parmesan Chicken
Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations of the dish that can bring new flavors to your table:
- Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chicken before cooking for a little heat.
- Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Top the chicken with extra shredded mozzarella or parmesan and garlic butter for a rich, indulgent version.
- Lemon Parmesan Chicken: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving for a zesty twist.
1. Can I Microwave Costco Parmesan Chicken?
No, it’s not recommended to microwave Costco parmesan chicken. Cooking in the oven or air fryer will give you the best crispy results.
2. How Long Should I Cook Costco Parmesan Chicken?
In the oven, it takes around 30-35 minutes at 190°C (375°F). In the air fryer, it takes about 20 minutes at 188°C (370°F).
3. Can I Add Extra Cheese?
Yes! If you love extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle additional parmesan or mozzarella on top during the last few minutes of cooking.