Freezing leftovers is a great way to save time and reduce food waste. It allows you to enjoy your favorite meals again later without having to cook everything from scratch. Chicken parmesan is a delicious Italian-American dish that can easily be frozen for future meals.
Can You Freeze Cooked Chicken Parmesan?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze leftover cooked chicken parmesan. The breaded chicken and tomato sauce freeze very well. Freezing cooked chicken parmesan allows you to reheat individual servings whenever you need a quick dinner. Here are some tips for freezing chicken parmesan:
- Allow the chicken parmesan to cool completely before freezing. Putting hot food directly in the freezer can raise the temperature and jeopardize other frozen items.
- Portion the chicken parmesan into individual servings in sealable freezer bags or airtight containers. This makes for easy reheating later.
- Remove as much air from the bags or containers as possible before sealing. This prevents freezer burn.
- Label the containers with the contents and date. Chicken parmesan is usually best within 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Place the packaged chicken parmesan flat in the freezer so it freezes quickly and evenly.
What are the Best Ways to Reheat Frozen Chicken Parmesan?
There are a few good methods for safely reheating frozen chicken parmesan:
Oven
One of the best ways to reheat frozen chicken parmesan is in the oven. This allows the breading to recrisp and the cheese to melt again. Simply place the frozen chicken parmesan on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
Microwave
The microwave provides a quick option for reheating chicken parmesan straight from the freezer. Microwave individual portions on a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently and reheating in 30 second increments as needed. The breading may lose some crispness.
Skillet
For a crispy breading texture, you can reheat frozen chicken parmesan in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a tablespoon of oil and cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side. This gives the breading a nice crunch.
Slow Cooker
Using a slow cooker is hands-off way to reheat frozen chicken parmesan. Add the frozen chicken parmesan to the slow cooker, cover with sauce, and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours. The low heat prevents overcooking.
Make sure chicken parmesan is heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking times may vary based on portion size. The sauce can be reheated right alongside the chicken or reheated separately.
What are the Best Containers for Freezing Chicken Parmesan?
The container you choose for freezing chicken parmesan can affect how well it reheats later on. Here are some good options:
| Container | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer bags | Lightweight, stackable, take up little space | Can be prone to rips and leaks |
| Plastic containers with lids | Reusable, airtight seal, easy food removal | Take up more freezer space |
| Aluminum foil pans | Inexpensive, can go straight from freezer to oven | Disposable, not reusable |
| Wax paper | Nonstick, moisture resistant | Not airtight, items may dry out |
The best containers for frozen chicken parmesan are reusable plastic containers or freezer bags. Make sure to choose freezer-safe packaging and remove as much air as possible before sealing.
How Long Does Frozen Chicken Parmesan Last?
Properly stored frozen chicken parmesan will maintain best quality for 2-3 months in the freezer, although it can last up to 4-6 months. Make sure your freezer is 0°F or colder. The sauce may start to dry out after prolonged freezing.
Check for signs of freezer burn on frozen chicken parmesan, like dried out spots or icy areas. If chicken parmesan develops an off smell, flavor or appearance when reheating, it’s best to discard it.
For optimal freshness and flavor, try to eat frozen chicken parmesan within 3 months. Always thaw chicken parmesan in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Do not thaw at room temperature or in hot water.
Conclusion
Chicken parmesan freezes exceptionally well, making it the perfect leftover meal to stock up on. Simply portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, remove air, label, and freeze. It will keep for 2-3 months in the freezer. Reheat frozen chicken parmesan in the oven, microwave, skillet or slow cooker until heated through.
With proper freezing and reheating, you can safely enjoy delicious homemade chicken parmesan again later in the week or month. Freezing chicken parmesan allows you to cut down on food waste while always having a tasty dinner option just waiting in your freezer.