Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish that combines crispy breaded chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner that will impress family and friends. Follow these steps to create a delicious Chicken Parmesan dish.

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:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
   • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
2. Set Up Breading Stations:
   • In one shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour.
   • In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
   • In a third shallow bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Bread the Chicken:
   • Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
   • Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
   • Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it is completely covered. Press down gently to help the crumbs adhere.
4. Fry the Chicken:
   • In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
   • Fry the breaded chicken breasts in batches, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the chicken is cooked through.
   • Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Assemble the Chicken Parmesan:
   • In a baking dish, spread 1 cup (240 ml) of marinara sauce over the bottom.
   • Arrange the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
   • Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
   • Serve hot with your favorite sides like spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan:

1. Even Thickness: Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly and remain tender.
2. Seasoning: Don’t skip seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. It enhances the flavor of the dish.
3. Crispy Coating: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken to achieve a crispy coating. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy breading.
4. Cheese: For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and high-quality mozzarella.
5. Marinara Sauce: Using a good-quality marinara sauce, whether store-bought or homemade, makes a significant difference in the overall taste of the dish.

Variations:

1. Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
2. Herb-Infused: Mix some dried Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme into the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
3. Cheese Variations: Try using a combination of mozzarella, provolone, and fontina cheese for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? A: While pre-cooked chicken can save time, it won’t have the same crispy texture as freshly fried chicken. It’s best to use raw chicken breasts and follow the breading and frying steps for the best results.

Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This helps maintain the crispy texture.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan? A: Yes, you can freeze Chicken Parmesan. After frying the chicken and before adding the marinara sauce and cheese, allow the chicken to cool completely. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, add the sauce and cheese and bake as directed, adding additional time as needed to heat through.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 650
• Total Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 170mg
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 45g

Chicken Parmesan is a timeless dish that never fails to impress. With its crispy breading, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a comfort food classic that brings joy to any table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious meal, this Chicken Parmesan recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy!