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Recipe:

Chicken Parmesan

By - 03/13/2025

Chicken Parmesan is a crispy, breaded chicken breast topped with rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This classic Italian-American dish is perfect for a hearty meal, served with pasta or fresh salad.

Preparation and Yield

 Cook time: 30 min  Prep time: 15 min  Total time: 45 min  4 servings 

Nutrition:

 450 calories per serving  18 grams of fat per serving
Chicken Parmesan

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon dried oregano 2 eggs, beaten 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 2 cups marinara sauce 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season with salt and pepper. In a shallow dish, mix flour with garlic powder and oregano. In another dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, combine breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese.
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, dip in the eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and place on a baking sheet.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy with pasta or a fresh green salad.

The Origins of Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan, or "Parmigiana," is rooted in Italian cuisine but has become a staple of Italian-American cooking. The dish is believed to have evolved from Eggplant Parmesan, a traditional recipe from Southern Italy. When Italian immigrants arrived in the United States, they adapted the recipe using chicken, which was more readily available and affordable.

Perfecting the Crispy Coating

The secret to a delicious Chicken Parmesan lies in achieving the perfect crispy coating. To ensure the breading sticks, it is essential to follow the flour-egg-breadcrumb process carefully. Using a combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, flavorful crust. Frying the chicken until golden brown before baking helps lock in moisture and develop the signature crunchy texture.

Pairing and Serving Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is often served with pasta, but it can also be enjoyed with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The tomato sauce and melted cheese complement the crispy chicken, creating a well-balanced dish. For a lighter option, serve it over zucchini noodles or alongside steamed greens.

FAQs about Chicken Parmesan

1 What is the best way to get a crispy crust on Chicken Parmesan?

The key to a crispy crust is using a three-step breading process: flour, egg wash, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Frying the chicken in olive oil before baking helps achieve a golden-brown, crispy texture while keeping the meat juicy inside.

2 Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the breaded chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. To maintain crispiness, avoid adding sauce and cheese until you’re ready to bake. You can also freeze cooked Chicken Parmesan and reheat it in the oven for a quick meal.

3 What’s the best type of cheese for Chicken Parmesan?

Mozzarella is the most common choice for its excellent melting quality. However, you can also use provolone, fontina, or a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for added depth of flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan sprinkled on top before baking enhances the dish.

4 What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?

It pairs well with pasta, but you can also serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. For a low-carb option, try zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

5 Can I make a healthier version of Chicken Parmesan?

Yes! Use whole wheat breadcrumbs and bake instead of frying. You can also substitute regular cheese with part-skim mozzarella and use a homemade low-sodium marinara sauce for a lighter, healthier version.


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