How Long to Cook Costco Chicken Parmesan for Perfect Results

Chicken parmesan is a delicious Italian-American classic and Costco makes enjoying this hearty dish easy with their convenient frozen version. But if you’re new to cooking Costco’s ready-to-bake chicken parmesan you may be wondering – how long do you cook it for ideal doneness?

The cooking time can vary based on factors like your preparation method and appliances Follow this guide for tips on achieving tender, juicy chicken encased in a crispy golden crust when making Costco chicken parmesan.

Costco Chicken Parmesan Overview

Costco’s chicken parmesan features breaded chicken breast cutlets stuffed with a creamy tomato and cheese filling. Each serving provides a solid hit of protein along with the rich flavors of parmesan, mozzarella, and marinara sauce.

It comes frozen in a package of 8 individually wrapped cutlets, making it a budget-friendly option for feeding a family. When stored properly in the freezer, it has a long shelf life but always refer to the expiration date for freshness.

Thawing and Handling

For food safety thaw Costco chicken parmesan in the refrigerator overnight before cooking rather than leaving it out at room temperature. This helps prevent bacterial growth.

Once thawed, use it promptly within a day or two. You can also cook it directly from frozen by extending the cooking time.

Always wash hands and prep surfaces thoroughly before and after handling raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.

Oven Baking Instructions

The oven produces a tender interior and crispy breaded exterior. Here are the step-by-step instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Remove plastic wrap and place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
• Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

The total oven cooking time is approximately 30-35 minutes. Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps lock in the juices.

If baking from frozen, add 5 extra minutes to ensure the center is fully cooked through. Monitor thickness and adjust time accordingly.

Microwave Cooking Time

The microwave provides a quick cooking option when you’re pressed for time. Follow these steps:

• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a lid or paper towel.
• Microwave on high power for 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Allow to rest for 1-2 minutes before eating.

Microwaving takes only 4-6 minutes but may yield a softer texture compared to other methods. Check for doneness and add cooking time if needed.

Air Fryer Directions

For crispness rivaling deep frying, the air fryer is ideal. Here’s how to make Costco chicken parmesan in an air fryer:

• Preheating air fryer to 370°F (188°C).
• Cook for 14-16 minutes, flipping over halfway.
• Verify internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

The circulating hot air of the air fryer crisps the exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Total cooking time is around 15 minutes.

Internal Temperature and Doneness

Regardless of preparation method, always cook Costco chicken parmesan to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) measured with a food thermometer. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked for food safety.

Signs of doneness include:

• Meat is opaque white throughout with no pink areas.
• Juices run clear when cut into.
• Breadcrumb coating is crispy and golden brown.
• Cheese filling is hot and melted.

If unsure, keep cooking until it passes the thermometer test for doneness. Undercooked chicken poses a health risk.

Cooking Tips

• For added flavor, sprinkle on extra shredded mozzarella or parmesan in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

• Bake on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow air circulation and prevent sogginess.

• When microwaving, use a lid or cover to retain moisture rather than drying out.

• In the oven or air fryer, avoid tenting with foil which can make the crust soft.

• Let it rest before cutting to allow juices to reabsorb for a juicier bite.

Common Mistakes

It’s easy to achieve tender, juicy results when making Costco chicken parmesan. Watch out for these common pitfalls:

• Not preheating the oven or air fryer before cooking.

• Overcrowding the baking sheet or air fryer basket.

• Skipping the use of a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.

• Cutting into the chicken immediately rather than allowing it to rest.

• Microwaving on high power without flipping, leading to uneven cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken parmesan makes a complete meal, but can also be accompanied by sides like pasta, salad, or garlic bread. Here are some ideas:

• Spaghetti tossed with marinara sauce.
• Caesar salad or mixed greens.
• Cheesy garlic bread.
• Sauteed broccoli rabe or asparagus.

For easy leftover meals, slice up the chicken and add it to sandwiches, flatbreads, or top a pizza crust.

Is Chicken Parmesan Pre-Cooked?

Costco chicken parmesan typically comes raw but partially cooked, meaning it requires thorough additional cooking to finish. Always verify with the product packaging, as some pre-cooked options may only need reheating.

When in doubt, play it safe and fully cook frozen chicken parmesan through to 165°F internal temperature. This guarantees any potentially harmful bacteria are eliminated.

Freezing and Storage

For best quality, use Costco chicken parmesan within a few days of thawing in the refrigerator. But it can also be frozen for longer storage:

• Allow chicken to cool completely first.
• Wrap individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place in freezer bag or airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

With proper storage, Costco’s chicken parmesan stays fresh and ready to bake into an easy, delicious meal anytime.

The Takeaway

Cooking times for Costco chicken parmesan can range from 25-35 minutes in the oven, 4-6 minutes in the microwave, or 12-15 minutes in an air fryer. Always cook to 165°F internal temperature. Allowing the chicken to rest before serving helps lock in moisture and flavor. Follow the oven, microwave, or air fryer cooking instructions for tender, juicy chicken parmesan encased in crispy seasoned breadcrumbs. With the right techniques, Costco’s convenient frozen chicken parmesan bakes up crispy and delicious.

Costco’s Chicken Alfredo typically requires 40-60 minutes of baking at 350°F (175°C) or 400°F (200°C) when cooking from a refrigerated state.

To cook Costco’s frozen breaded chicken breast, you can bake, air fry, or microwave it, depending on your preference. For baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Air frying requires a preheat to 360°F (182°C) and a cooking time of around 17 minutes, also flipping halfway. Microwaving is fastest, but may not produce the crispiest results;