Chicken Parmesan
If you’re looking for a dish that combines crispy, breaded chicken with a rich, tangy marinara sauce and gooey, melted cheese, look no further than Chicken Parmesan. This Italian-American classic is a favorite in many households for good reason. Not only is it incredibly satisfying to eat, but it also brings a comforting warmth that makes it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into how to bring this delicious Chicken Parmesan to your table!
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
Chicken Parmesan is a dish that pleases both kids and adults alike. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and creamy cheese creates a delightful experience for the taste buds. Plus, the crispy coating adds a satisfying crunch that elevates the entire dish. Whether served over a bed of spaghetti or alongside a fresh salad, Chicken Parmesan is sure to impress your guests and bring everyone together around the dinner table.
What You’ll Gather
To create this mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 1 ½ lbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
- ¼ cup panko
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, more as needed
- 1 ⅓ cups marinara sauce
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
- Chopped fresh basil, for garnish
Essential Tools for Success
To make your Chicken Parmesan preparation smooth and efficient, gather these essential tools:
- Meat mallet or rolling pin – for flattening the chicken breasts.
- Three shallow bowls – for the flour, eggs, and breadcrumb mixtures.
- Large skillet – for frying the chicken.
- Baking dish – to assemble the Chicken Parmesan before baking.
- Meat thermometer – to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly.
Chicken Parmesan in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about ½ inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
In one shallow bowl, place the flour and season it with salt and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan, panko, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure it adheres well. Set the breaded chicken aside on a plate.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You may need to add more oil if the skillet looks dry.
Step 5: Assemble the Chicken Parmesan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread about ⅓ cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the cooked chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle the sliced mozzarella cheese on top. Finally, finish with the remaining ¼ cup of grated Parmesan.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the assembled Chicken Parmesan in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. If you want an extra crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the Chicken Parmesan to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil before slicing and serving. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, a side salad, or crusty bread.
Customize for Your Needs
Feel free to personalize your Chicken Parmesan with these options:
- Add vegetables: Sauté spinach or zucchini to layer in with the chicken.
- Use different cheeses: Try provolone or fontina for a unique flavor twist.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to accommodate dietary needs.
What Could Go Wrong
While Chicken Parmesan is straightforward, a few pitfalls can arise:
- Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid dry chicken. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C).
- Wet breading: If the chicken is too wet before breading, the coating may not stick. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Soggy bottom: Ensure the chicken is cooked properly before baking it with sauce to avoid a soggy texture.
- Burnt cheese: If broiling, stay vigilant to prevent the cheese from burning. It can go from golden to charred in seconds.
Best Ways to Store
If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine after such a delicious meal), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, wrap the Chicken Parmesan tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: To reheat, place in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
Ask the Chef
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a juicier result and work beautifully in this recipe.
What type of marinara sauce is best for Chicken Parmesan?
Use a high-quality store-bought marinara or homemade sauce that you love. The flavor of the sauce can greatly influence the dish.
Can I prepare Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes! You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Just keep the breaded chicken covered to prevent it from drying out.
Is it necessary to use fresh mozzarella?
While fresh mozzarella provides a delicious texture and flavor, you can use shredded mozzarella if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the quantity accordingly.
Bring It Home
Now that you have all the information you need to make the perfect Chicken Parmesan, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get started. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings comfort, joy, and, most importantly, a satisfying meal to your table.
With its crispy exterior, juicy chicken, and melty cheese, Chicken Parmesan is destined to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re preparing it for family or friends, this dish is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and most importantly, create unforgettable memories around your dining table. Happy cooking!
Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about ½ inch thick.
- In one shallow bowl, place the flour and season it with salt and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan, panko, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure it adheres well. Set the breaded chicken aside on a plate.
- In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread about ⅓ cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the cooked chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle the sliced mozzarella cheese on top. Finish with the remaining ¼ cup of grated Parmesan.
- Bake the assembled Chicken Parmesan in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. If you want an extra crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Once out of the oven, allow the Chicken Parmesan to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like oregano or thyme.
- Serve with a side of spaghetti for a classic presentation.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
