If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal, look no further than chicken parmesan. This classic Italian-American dish features tender chicken breasts coated in crispy breadcrumbs, topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in, this chicken parmesan recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Here is the list of ingredients.
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
The nutritional value for one serving of chicken parmesan (about 1 piece) includes approximately 450 calories, 25g of fat, 30g of protein, and 40g of carbohydrates. It’s a deliciously satisfying meal for one!
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish.
- Top each piece with marinara sauce and slices of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the chicken with eggplant for a vegetarian version. Additionally, use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option, or try different cheeses like provolone for a unique flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken parmesan pairs beautifully with spaghetti, a fresh green salad, or garlic bread. For a lighter option, serve it with steamed vegetables or a side of roasted potatoes.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You may freeze it, but the quality may vary upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy crust.
- Don’t skip the marinara sauce; it adds essential flavor.
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best melty texture.
- Make sure to season every layer for enhanced flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Let the chicken rest after frying for juicier meat.
- Experiment with herbs in the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
- For a crunchier topping, broil the dish for a few minutes after baking.
- Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
What type of cheese is best for chicken parmesan?
Fresh mozzarella is ideal for its melting quality, but you can also use provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for extra flavor.
Can I make chicken parmesan in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and top it with sauce and cheese ahead of time. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is chicken parmesan spicy?
Chicken parmesan is typically not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a kick.
What sides go well with chicken parmesan?
Great sides include pasta, garlic bread, or a simple salad, balancing the richness of the dish.
Conclusion
Chicken parmesan is a beloved dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. With its crispy chicken, savory marinara, and melty cheese, it’s perfect for any meal. Follow this recipe for a delightful experience that will leave you and your guests wanting more!
Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Olive oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish.
- Top each piece with marinara sauce and slices of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
