Delicious Chicken Parmesan Recipe: A Family-Favorite Meal

Chicken Parmesan is a popular Italian-American dish that has captured the hearts of many with its rich flavors and comforting taste. Perfect for dinner parties or family meals, this versatile recipe can be adjusted to accommodate various dietary needs. Whether you're looking to enjoy this classic favorite in your own kitchen or want to impress guests at a gathering, here's how to prepare this iconic meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with some olive oil. This step ensures the chicken Parmesan won't stick to the pan while cooking.

2. In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour and salt and pepper. In another bowl, lightly beat two eggs. In a third container, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with the cheese if desired for extra flavor.

3. Dip each chicken breast first into the flour mixture to coat evenly, then dip in the beaten eggs, making sure it's well coated. Lastly, roll or press the breasts in the breadcrumb mixture to ensure full coverage of crumbs and cheese.

4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Fry each chicken breast until golden brown on both sides—about 6-8 minutes per side for an even cooking process.

5. Lay the fried chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish and spoon marinara sauce over each piece. Cover with shredded mozzarella cheese, making sure to cover all surfaces of the chicken evenly.

6. Bake uncovered at 350°F for approximately 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is fully cooked through (check internal temperature reaches 165°F).

7. Allow it to rest in a warm place for about 5-7 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if using.

The total cooking time for this recipe is approximately **40-45 minutes** and yields around **4 servings**, making it perfect for families or gatherings of close friends. Chicken Parmesan can be enjoyed at room temperature, but for best results, serve immediately after baking to savor the warm and savory flavors.

For a healthier twist on this classic dish, you might consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular panko. Alternatively, you could reduce the amount of cheese added initially, then sprinkle more fresh mozzarella over each piece right before serving for extra flavor without overwhelming your palate.

This versatile dish can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary restrictions. For vegetarians or vegans, simply replace the chicken with zucchini slices, eggplant, or portobello mushrooms; they all work well as alternatives. If you're watching your carb intake, opt for whole grain or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.

The rich tomato sauce paired with melted cheese makes Chicken Parmesan a dish that can easily be enjoyed by everyone at the table, regardless of dietary preferences or restrictions. Its hearty flavors make it an excellent choice when hosting friends or family and a comforting meal during colder seasons.

Additional Tips:

• Ensure your chicken is fully thawed before cooking to avoid uneven cooking times.

If you're preparing the dish ahead of time, assemble all ingredients but do not bake until right before serving. This prevents the chicken from drying out during a long bake time.

1. For best results, use fresh mozzarella instead of pre-shredded for an extra creamy texture and more authentic taste.

This Chicken Parmesan recipe offers flexibility and adaptability to cater to different preferences while delivering delicious results every single time. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this easy yet impressive dish is sure to become a favorite among your loved ones!