Savor the Flavor: Homemade Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this delicious Chicken Parmesan recipe! Tender chicken breasts coated in crispy breadcrumbs, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese – it’s a classic comfort food dish that never fails to impress. Join us as we dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this beloved Italian favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce, store-bought or homemade
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, coating it evenly.
- Fry the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Arrange the cooked chicken breasts in the dish.
- Spoon additional marinara sauce over each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each chicken breast.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the Chicken Parmesan from the oven.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Breading Tips: For extra crispy chicken, double coat the chicken breasts by dipping them in the egg and breadcrumb mixture twice before frying.
- Homemade Marinara Sauce: Elevate the flavor of your Chicken Parmesan by using homemade marinara sauce. You can make it ahead of time or use your favorite store-bought variety.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with slices of eggplant for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications:
- Keto Version: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for breading the chicken. Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with Parmesan cheese instead of breadcrumbs. Opt for a low-carb marinara sauce and use a combination of mozzarella and provolone cheese for topping.
- Low-Carb Version: Similar to the keto version, use almond flour or coconut flour for breading the chicken. Choose a marinara sauce with lower sugar content or make your own using fresh tomatoes. Limit the amount of cheese used for topping to reduce carb content further.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it? A: Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken breasts in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a juicier and more flavorful alternative. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the thighs.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan? A: Yes, you can freeze cooked Chicken Parmesan for later consumption. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Dive into a world of flavor with this irresistible Chicken Parmesan recipe. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or opt for a keto or low-carb version, you’re sure to enjoy every delicious bite of tender chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Get creative with your toppings and serve alongside pasta, salad, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Treat yourself to the comforting goodness of Chicken Parmesan tonight!
