Delicious Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines tender breaded chicken with a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese over spaghetti. This classic comfort food has been adored by families for generations, and today it remains a popular choice in households across the country. In this article, we will guide you through making your very own Chicken Parmesan at home.

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup of panko bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 jar (about 25 oz) of your favorite marinara sauce
• 6 ounces uncooked spaghetti pasta
• Grated Parmesan for serving

Cooking time: Approximately 1 hour.

Servings: 4 people

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Chicken Parmesan:

1. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:

Begin by preparing your marinara sauce according to your preferred recipe or using store-bought options. Once ready, set it aside and allow for cooling.

2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:

Using a meat mallet, pound each chicken breast until they are about 1/4-inch thick. This will ensure even cooking throughout. Season both sides of each chicken piece with salt and pepper to taste.

Making the Breaded Coating:

1. Combine panko bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese in a shallow bowl. Set aside.
2. In another shallow dish, beat three large eggs until well mixed. This mixture will be used for dipping the chicken before coating it with the breadcrumb blend.
3. Mix flour in a third shallow dish to form the base of the breading mixture.

3. Breading and Cooking:

Dip each piece of pounded chicken into the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs. Finally, coat thoroughly with the panko-Parmesan mixture. Set aside on a plate.

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, flipping when the breading turns golden brown. Remove from heat once done. You can either place them directly in a baking dish or keep them warm while you assemble the rest of your meal.

Assembling the Chicken Parmesan:

Once all chicken has been breaded and cooked, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well before placing in a large baking dish.
• Spoon a generous amount of the marinara sauce over the pasta, ensuring an even layer covers all noodles. Top with the fried chicken breasts and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Place your assembled dish back into the oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Once done, remove it from the oven and garnish with extra grated Parmesan if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

This Chicken Parmesan pairs wonderfully well with a side of garlic bread or fresh garden salad. A glass of red wine can also elevate your dining experience to new heights!

Tips for Success:

• Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded evenly to avoid overcooking in some areas while undercooked in others.
• If you prefer a creamier sauce, consider adding half-and-half or heavy cream when mixing your marinara sauce.
• For extra flavor, you can add dried herbs like basil and oregano to the breadcrumb coating before baking.

In Conclusion:

The joy of creating Chicken Parmesan lies not just in its delicious taste but also in sharing it with loved ones. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is accessible enough for everyone to enjoy. Try experimenting with different types of pasta or add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top of your dish for an extra touch of elegance.

Happy cooking! With these simple steps and tips, you too can master the art of Chicken Parmesan at home.