Chicken Parmesan Recipe - Easy to Cook
Chicken Parmesan, originally an Italian-American dish, has become a staple in many restaurants worldwide, not just Italian ones. Its delicious combination of rich tomato sauce, gooey melted cheese, and crispy fried cutlets has won hearts everywhere. Plus, Chicken Parmesan is super easy to make, both at home or in restaurant kitchens, and can be adapted to fit various dietary preferences. So, now let’s check out this easy chicken Parmesan recipe.
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| Chicken Parmesan Recipe |
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 (12-ounce) package shredded mozzarella cheese
Equipment:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Baking dish
- Meat mallet
- Mixing bowls
- Cooking tongs
What is Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan, or Chicken Parmigiana, is a beloved Italian-American dish featuring a crispy breaded chicken breast smothered in marinara sauce and melted cheese, typically mozzarella. The dish has become a favorite comfort food, celebrated for its mix of flavors and hearty ingredients. The bliss of biting into a well-cooked chicken breast, combined with tangy sauce and gooey cheese, offers a fantastic meal that is sure to satisfy any palate.
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| What is Chicken Parmesan |
How to Make Chicken Parmesan?
Step 1: Pound the chicken breasts. Place chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or in resealable freezer bags, on a flat surface. Use the meat mallet to pound the chicken breast until it’s about 1/2-inch thick.
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| Pound the Chicken Breasts |
Step 2: Prepare chicken breasts. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and dredge them in flour. It’s best to use a sifter to coat the both sides evenly.
Step 3: Make the breading. In a bowl, whisk the eggs, and in a separate bowl, combine the flour, Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Bread the chicken. Dip the chicken breasts in beaten eggs, and then coat them with the breadcrumb mixture. For a crispier crust, repeat the process one more time.
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| Bread the Chicken |
Step 5: Pan-fry the chicken breasts. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet until your food thermometer registers 350℉ or it is over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook them until they’re golden brown on both sides, then transfer them to a baking dish.
Step 6: Preheat oven and make sauce. Preheat your oven to 400℉. At the same time, add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until they’re softened. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to simmer and cook for 15 minutes or until it gets thickened.
Step 7: Top each breast with sauce. Drizzle some sauce over each chicken breast and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese on top. If you’ve got a wireless meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast before popping them in the oven.
Step 8: Bake chicken parmesan. Bake the chicken parmigiana for 15 minutes, until the cheese is all melted and bubbly. Just make sure the center temperature of the chicken breasts should be at least 165℉ (USDA-recommended safe minimum internal temperature). You can sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
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| Bake Chicken Parmesan |
Successful Tips:
- For a crispier crust, double-coat the chicken in each layer of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- If you don't have marinara sauce, just substitute diced canned tomatoes and add your own seasonings.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor. Mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone are all great options.
What Cheese Do You Use in Chicken Parmesan?
Traditionally, fresh mozzarella is the top pick because its creamy texture and melting qualities. But mixing in some grated Parmesan can really take things up a notch, adding depth with nutty, salty notes while still keeping that delicious gooeyness of mozzarella.
What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan is often served with a side of pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. Pairing it with a light arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, or some garlic bread gives you that classic Italian vibe. Additionally, you can roll up thin slices for rollatini or use cutlets to whip up a flavorful sandwich. Adding roasted veggies or some steamed broccoli can also brighten up the dish and make the meal healthier and more balanced.
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| What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan |
