Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Rated 5 out of 5
Prep. time:
40 min
Difficulty:
medium
Amount:
4 dishes
Cosher:
not kosher
Origin: Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a popular Italian-American dish that has become a staple in many households and restaurants. Originating from Southern Italy, this dish features breaded and fried chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese.
Yield and Difficulty:
- This recipe serves 4.
- Difficulty Level: Medium
Ingredients for making Classic Chicken Parmesan
- · 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- · 1 cup all-purpose flour
- · 2 large eggs, beaten
- · 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- · 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- · 2 cups marinara sauce
- · 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- · 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
- · Salt and pepper to taste
- · Olive oil for frying
How to Make Classic Chicken Parmesan - Step by step Instructions:
- Prepare Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Set Up Breading Station: In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bread Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
- Fry Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Assemble Chicken Parmesan: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Spoon more marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the Chicken Parmesan from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top for garnish. Serve hot over cooked pasta or with crusty bread for a delicious and comforting meal.
Nutritional Advantages
- Chicken is a lean source of protein and provides essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and selenium.
- Parmesan cheese adds calcium and protein to the dish, while also providing a rich and nutty flavor.
- Baking the chicken instead of frying can reduce the amount of oil and calories in the dish.
Recipe Alternatives for Dietary Restrictions:
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- To make the dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with eggplant slices or tofu cutlets. Coat them in the same breading mixture and follow the same instructions for assembling and baking.
Tips for Enhancing the Recipe
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Use a high-quality marinara sauce or make your own from scratch for the best flavor.
- For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded chicken instead of frying it. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
This Classic Chicken Parmesan recipe is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
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