Name: Chicken Parmigiana
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 6 pieces Chicken Thighs; 1 cup Unbleached All-Purpose Flour; 2 pieces Eggs (Extra large); 1 cup Bread Crumbs; 1 cup Panko; ½ cup Parmesan Cheese; 3 teaspoons Dry Marjoram; 1 cup Tomato Sauce; 1 cup Fresh Mozzarella; 1 cup Olive Oil (For frying)

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-made Chicken Parmigiana. As I recall the first time I had it, I was at a cozy little Italian restaurant, the aroma of fresh herbs and melting cheese wrapping around me like a warm hug. Each bite was a harmony of flavors, with the crispy breaded chicken mingling perfectly with the rich tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella. It became a staple in my home, especially on those busy weeknights when I craved something heartwarming yet simple to prepare. The Chicken Parmigiana has become a family favorite, bringing smiles to faces and warmth to our dinner table, creating memories that last long after the plates are cleared.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
435 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Oven, Skillet, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife

The Appeal of This Chicken Parmigiana

It’s Comforting

The Chicken Parmigiana is the ultimate comfort food that warms the soul. The crispy, golden-brown exterior of the chicken, combined with the savory flavors of tomato sauce and melted cheese, creates a dish that feels like a hug from a loved one. It’s the kind of meal that can immediately lift your spirits after a long day.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, Chicken Parmigiana fits the bill. It’s a meal that everyone can enjoy, making it a go-to recipe for various occasions.

Easy to Make

Don’t let its restaurant-quality taste fool you; Chicken Parmigiana is surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few key ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious dish that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Customizable

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize your Chicken Parmigiana. Experiment with different cheeses, sauces, or even add herbs to the breadcrumbs for an extra flavor kick. This dish can be tailored to suit your family’s preferences, making it a fun culinary adventure.

Great Leftovers

One of my favorite things about Chicken Parmigiana is that it makes amazing leftovers. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the next day’s meal just as delicious, if not better! It’s perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.

Family Approved

This dish has a special place in my heart because it brings my family together. Every time I prepare Chicken Parmigiana, I can count on it to spark joy and conversation at the dinner table. It’s a dish that creates memories, laughter, and shared experiences.

What’s In This Chicken Parmigiana

When it comes to Chicken Parmigiana, the ingredients are simple yet powerful. Each component plays a vital role in creating that signature flavor profile we all crave. The freshness of the ingredients is essential, particularly the chicken and herbs, which elevate the dish to another level.

Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy, they serve as the perfect base for this dish, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
Unbleached All-Purpose Flour: This helps create a crispy coating when fried, giving the chicken that delicious crunch.
Eggs: They act as a binder, allowing the breading to adhere perfectly to the chicken.
Bread Crumbs: These provide texture and crunch, making every bite satisfying.
Panko: This Japanese breadcrumb adds an extra crunch and lightness to the coating.
Parmesan Cheese: A must-have ingredient for that distinctive cheesy flavor, it brings richness to the dish.
Dry Marjoram: This herb adds a lovely aromatic touch, enhancing the overall flavor.
Tomato Sauce: The sauce is the heart of this dish, offering tanginess and depth of flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella: Melty and creamy, it tops the dish perfectly, adding an indulgent touch.
Olive Oil: Used for frying, it brings richness and flavor to the chicken.

Step by Step Instructions for Chicken Parmigiana

Ready to make some magic in the kitchen? Making Chicken Parmigiana is a journey filled with delightful aromas and mouthwatering flavors. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be enjoying this comfort food classic in no time!

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your oven is ready to go once you finish preparing the chicken.
Next, take your chicken thighs and place them between sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to about ¼ inch thick. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and keeps it tender.
On a shallow dish, combine the unbleached all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, and pepper. On a second dish, beat the eggs with a tablespoon of water. In a third dish, mix together the bread crumbs, panko, dry marjoram, and parmesan cheese. This setup creates a traditional breading station.
Now, take each piece of chicken and coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off, and finally dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well.
In a large sauté pan, heat enough olive oil to cover about half an inch up the sides. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken thighs. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure they fry evenly.
Once they’re beautifully golden, remove the chicken and place it on a cookie sheet. This is where the magic begins!
Spread a generous layer of tomato sauce over each piece of chicken, followed by slices of fresh mozzarella. The cheese will melt and create that gooey, delicious topping we all love.
Place the cookie sheet in your preheated oven and bake until the mozzarella is beautifully melted and bubbly, about 10 to 15 minutes. The aroma will be incredible!
Once it’s done, remove your Chicken Parmigiana from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle.

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the oil, causing the chicken to steam instead of fry. This will prevent that desired crispy texture.
Pound Evenly: Ensure the chicken is pounded evenly to allow it to cook uniformly. Thicker parts may remain undercooked.
Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cheeses and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. It’s worth using quality ingredients.
Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Ways to Customize

Getting creative with your Chicken Parmigiana can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to personalize your dish:

Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed spinach or mushrooms into your tomato sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your breadcrumb mixture for a zesty twist.
Different Cheeses: Try using a mix of cheeses like provolone or fontina along with mozzarella for unique flavor combinations.
Herb Variations: Fresh basil or oregano can complement the dish beautifully. Feel free to experiment!
Lighten It Up: For a healthier version, bake the chicken instead of frying it or use whole wheat breadcrumbs.

Serve This Chicken Parmigiana With

Pasta: Serve alongside a simple spaghetti or fettuccine for a classic pairing.
Salad: A fresh garden salad can balance the richness of the Chicken Parmigiana, providing a great contrast.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Wine: Pair with a light white wine for a sophisticated touch, enhancing the flavors of your dish.
Seasonal Veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables make a healthy and colorful side.

FAQ

Absolutely! While I personally prefer the juiciness of chicken thighs, chicken breast is also a great option. Just keep in mind that breasts tend to dry out faster, so be careful not to overcook them.

For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh mozzarella as it melts beautifully and gives that classic Italian experience. You can also mix in some Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy finish!

Definitely! You can prepare the breadcrumbs and bread the chicken in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. You can also bake the chicken and reheat it later for an easy meal.

I love serving Chicken Parmigiana with a simple garden salad and garlic bread. You can also pair it with a side of pasta or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

The Chicken Parmigiana is a beloved classic that brings comfort and joy to every table. With its crispy exterior and melty cheese, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite among families. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the amazing flavors and cherished moments it can create. You won’t regret it!