Ina Garten’s Chicken Parmesan with Arugula offers a lighter, fresher spin on the classic comfort dish. Instead of being smothered in sauce and heavy cheese, the chicken is breaded and crisped to perfection, then topped with a simple salad of peppery arugula tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette.

It’s elegant, satisfying, and easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for company.

What Is Ina Garten Chicken Parmesan with Arugula?

In this version of Chicken Parmesan, thin chicken breasts are breaded, sautéed until golden, and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan, not a heavy blanket of sauce and cheese. A fresh arugula salad tops the crispy chicken, making the dish vibrant, lighter, and bursting with flavor.

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Chicken Parmesan with Arugula

Crispy and light – No heavy sauce weighing it down
Bright, fresh flavors – Thanks to lemony arugula salad
Quick to make – On the table in about 30 minutes
Balanced meal – Protein, greens, and bold flavor in every bite
Elegant presentation – Looks beautiful on the plate
Family-friendly yet sophisticated – Appeals to kids and adults
Perfect for entertaining – Easy to prepare in advance

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Chicken Parmesan with Arugula

For the chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, butterflied and pounded thin
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten with 1 tablespoon water
1½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs (or plain with Italian seasoning)
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Olive oil, for frying

For the arugula salad:

4–5 cups baby arugula
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
¼ cup good olive oil
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Shaved Parmesan, for topping

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Chicken Parmesan with Arugula

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Place flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs each in separate shallow dishes. Season the flour with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan while still hot.

Step 3: Make the arugula salad

In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the arugula and toss gently to coat.

Step 4: Assemble and serve

Place each chicken breast on a plate. Top with a generous handful of arugula salad. Finish with additional shaved Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Chicken Parmesan with Arugula

Roasted potatoes or crispy fries – Adds a hearty side
Garlic bread or focaccia – Perfect for a rustic touch
Caprese salad – Fresh tomatoes and mozzarella complement each other well
Simple pasta aglio e olio – A light garlic and olive oil pasta
Grilled vegetables, like asparagus or zucchini – Adds color and flavor
Sparkling water with lemon or white wine – Refreshing pairings
Roasted cauliflower or broccoli – Extra vegetable boost

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Chicken Parmesan with Arugula

Pound chicken evenly – Ensures quick, even cooking
Season each layer – Flour, egg, and breadcrumbs should all be seasoned
Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches if needed
Use good olive oil for dressing – Adds richness to the salad
Toss arugula right before serving – Keeps it crisp and lively
Add Parmesan immediately after frying – It melts slightly over the chicken
Serve immediately – So the chicken stays crisp under the salad

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Chicken Parmesan with Arugula

Use panko breadcrumbs – For extra crunch
Top with sliced heirloom tomatoes – Adds color and juiciness
Swap arugula for mixed greens – Softer, milder flavor
Add thin lemon slices over the chicken – For even more citrus kick
Mix fresh herbs into breadcrumbs – Basil, parsley, or thyme
Top with a drizzle of balsamic reduction – For sweetness and depth
Serve with a fried egg on top – A luxurious brunch version

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Chicken Parmesan with Arugula

Store chicken and salad separately – Keeps the chicken crispy
Refrigerate cooked chicken in an airtight container – Lasts up to 2 days
Arugula salad best made fresh – Dressed greens wilt quickly
Do not freeze cooked breaded chicken – Texture becomes soggy upon thawing

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Chicken Parmesan with Arugula

Oven: Reheat chicken at 350°F for 8–10 minutes – Restores crispness
Air fryer: 350°F for 3–4 minutes – Quick and keeps it crispy
Avoid the microwave – Softens the breading
Toss fresh arugula salad right before serving – Preserves freshness
Drizzle with a little fresh lemon juice after reheating – Brightens flavor

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 430
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 540mg

A fresh and flavorful dish with balanced protein, greens, and healthy fats.

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s chicken parmesan with arugula ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken ahead by breading and cooking it, then refrigerating it. Reheat in the oven before serving, and toss the arugula salad fresh just before assembling.

What’s the best way to keep the chicken crispy in the salad?

Add the arugula salad right before serving and avoid overdressing it. This way, the chicken stays crisp and doesn’t become soggy.

Can I use different greens instead of arugula?

Yes, you can substitute arugula with baby spinach, mixed greens, or a combination of lettuces if you prefer a milder flavor.

Is it necessary to use both Parmesan and breadcrumbs for the chicken coating?

Yes, combining Parmesan with breadcrumbs gives the chicken extra flavor, richness, and a beautifully crispy texture.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Chicken Parmesan with Arugula brings a lighter, fresher take to a classic favorite. Crisp golden chicken, zesty lemon-dressed arugula, and savory Parmesan come together beautifully for a dish that’s equally satisfying and elegant.

Other Ina Garten Recipes