Chicken Parmesan
Every time I make Chicken Parmesan, I’m transported back to my childhood, where the aroma of bubbling cheese and savory tomato sauce filled the kitchen. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to comfort and warmth, often shared with family and friends over laughter and stories. I remember the first time I served this to my friends; their eyes lit up at the first bite, and I felt a surge of joy knowing I could create something so delicious. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Chicken Parmesan always hits the mark. It’s the perfect blend of crispy, tender chicken, rich sauce, and melted cheese that makes everyone feel right at home.
Recipe Snapshot
50 mins
20 mins
30 mins
Medium
400 kcal
30 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
20 g
Mixing Bowl, Whisk, Oven, Grater, Skillet, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet
What Sets This Chicken Parmesan Apart
1. A Classic Italian Favorite
Chicken Parmesan is a beloved dish that showcases the heart of Italian cuisine. The combination of crispy chicken, tangy marinara, and gooey cheese is simply irresistible. Each bite brings together the best flavors, evoking a sense of nostalgia.
2. The Crunch Factor
What sets Chicken Parmesan apart is the delightful crunch of the breaded chicken. I love the sound it makes when you take that first bite. The crispy breadcrumbs create a contrast with the tender meat, making every mouthful a satisfying experience.
3. Customizable to Your Taste
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can tweak the spices or the type of cheese to suit your palate. I often experiment with different herbs or even add a touch of spice for an extra kick. It’s always fun to make it your own!
4. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, Chicken Parmesan fits right in. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings people together, making it perfect for celebrations or simply sharing a meal with loved ones.
5. An Easy Make-Ahead Meal
One of my favorite things about Chicken Parmesan is that it can be prepared ahead of time. You can bread the chicken in advance and freeze it, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
6. Budget-Friendly Delight
This dish is not only delicious but also budget-friendly. With just a few affordable ingredients, you can create a meal that feels gourmet. It’s a great way to impress guests without breaking the bank!
What You Need for Chicken Parmesan
When it comes to making Chicken Parmesan, the ingredients are simple yet essential. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor that create a fabulous dish. The key players here are the chicken, Italian seasoning mix, and, of course, the parmesan cheese, which adds that signature richness.
- Chicken Breasts: The thinner and more even the chicken, the better it will cook. It’s vital to ensure uniform cooking and tenderness.
- Salt: A must for seasoning, it enhances the flavors of the chicken.
- Italian Seasoning Mix: This is one of the best flavor combinations. Make your own for even better results.
Chicken Parmesan Instructions
Making Chicken Parmesan is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready to impress! Let’s dive into the process.
- Start by slicing each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Sprinkle each piece with salt and Italian seasoning mix. Let them set aside for a moment.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
- Create a breading station: on one plate, place flour for dusting; in a deep dish, whisk together eggs, salt, and a bit of garlic powder. On another plate, mix panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
- Dust each piece of seasoned chicken with flour first, making sure it’s coated evenly. This helps the egg adhere better.
- Next, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Shake off any excess egg so it won’t be too soggy.
- Finally, coat the chicken in the parmesan and panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help it stick.
- Place the breaded chicken on a wire rack and repeat with the remaining pieces. This allows air to circulate and keeps the coating crispy.
- In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully place two pieces of chicken in the oil if they fit, frying them for about 2.5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and place it back on the wire rack. This will help drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- On a baking tray, lay out the fried chicken. Spread your favorite marinara sauce on top of each piece and sprinkle with grated mozzarella and extra parmesan. Drizzle with a little olive oil for added flavor.
- Finally, bake the chicken in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Chicken Thickness: Ensure your chicken is evenly sliced to guarantee even cooking. Thinner pieces cook faster and are juicier.
- Oven Temperature: Preheating your oven is critical for achieving that perfect melt on the cheese without overcooking the chicken.
- Breading Method: Pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken ensures they adhere well, providing a great crunch after frying.
- Letting It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest on a wire rack after frying keeps it crispy and prevents sogginess.
Make It Your Own
One of the best parts about cooking is making a recipe your own. Here are some tips to personalize your Chicken Parmesan experience:
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze the breaded chicken before frying. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors of the Chicken Parmesan.
- Experiment with Sauces: While marinara is traditional, you can experiment with pesto or white sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different cheeses like provolone or mozzarella for layering your flavors.
Serve This Chicken Parmesan With
- Garlic Bread: Enhance your meal with warm garlic bread, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the Chicken Parmesan.
- Pasta: Serve alongside spaghetti or penne tossed in olive oil and garlic for a hearty meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with seasonal roasted vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
- Wine Pairing: A light, crisp white wine can complement the dish beautifully, if you enjoy pairing.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Chicken Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines crispy chicken with savory sauce and bubbling cheese, making it truly special. I encourage you to try this recipe, whether it’s for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. It’s sure to impress and become a favorite in your home.
Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise and sprinkle with salt and italian seasoning mix. Set aside.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Create a breading station by placing flour on a plate. In a deep dish, whisk together egg, salt and garlic powder. Mix panko breadcrumbs and parmesan in another plate.
- Dust the chicken with flour.
- Then dip it well into the egg mixture, shake off excess egg.
- Last coat the chicken in the parmesan panko mixture.
- Place the chicken on a wire rack and repeat with remaining chicken.
- Heat oil on medium high heat in a skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place 2 chicken breasts (if they fit) gently in the oil and fry on each side for 2.5 minutes.
- Remove and place on a wire rack.
- Place the fried chicken on a baking tray. Spread sauce on top of each piece of chicken and then top with a mount of grated mozzarella. Sprinkle parmesan and drizzle with a little olive oil. Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Serve with your favorite side from the options above!
