Indulge in the classic flavors of chicken parmesan, a dish that combines crispy breaded chicken with savory marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This recipe is not only simple to make but also perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. With its delightful balance of textures and flavors, chicken parmesan is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 35g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional value is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
3. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
4. In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
5. Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
7. Fry the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
8. Place the fried chicken in a baking dish.
9. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then top with mozzarella cheese.
10. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with turkey cutlets for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using eggplant or zucchini slices instead of chicken. Additionally, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for a gluten-free dish.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken parmesan pairs beautifully with spaghetti or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with garlic bread or over a bed of sautéed spinach for a healthier option.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 heated through. Chicken parmesan can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it is well-wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy.
– Ensure the oil is hot before frying to prevent sogginess.
– Don’t skip the seasoning; it enhances flavor.
– Let the chicken rest after frying for better texture.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
Helpful Tips
– Use a meat thermometer to check doneness (165°F/74°C).
– Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
– Prepare the marinara sauce in advance for convenience.
– Serve with fresh basil for a burst of freshness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
What can I serve with chicken parmesan?
Chicken parmesan is great with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad, enhancing the meal’s flavors and textures.
How do I make chicken parmesan gluten-free?
Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure that your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance, then bake just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
Chicken parmesan is a timeless favorite that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. With its crispy chicken, rich sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether for a family meal or a dinner party, this recipe is a must-try that will leave a lasting impression.
Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Place the fried chicken in a baking dish.
- Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Nutrition
