Homemade Chicken Parmesan: A Delicious Italian Favorite

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved dish in many households for its delicious and comforting flavors. This classic Italian-American recipe involves breaded chicken coated with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, creating a savory yet creamy delight.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups Italian breadcrumbs (also called panko)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 jar (about 24 ounces) of marinara sauce or your preferred pasta sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided into two parts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station.

1. In a shallow bowl, mix together flour, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. In another shallow bowl, beat two eggs until well combined.
3. On a plate or tray, spread Italian breadcrumbs evenly with your hands.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken.

4. Dip one chicken breast into flour mixture to coat both sides; shake off any excess. Set aside.
5. Bend and dip the coated chicken in beaten eggs, then press it into breadcrumbs until evenly covered. Repeat with remaining chicken breasts.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken Parmesan.

7. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add breaded chicken pieces to the pan one at a time, making sure not to overcrowd; you may need to cook them in batches.
8. Cook each side until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. This step helps ensure that the coating is crisp and well-browned before baking or serving.
9. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken pieces onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Optionally, you can add more breadcrumbs to top them off for extra crunchiness if desired.

Step 4: Assembling and Baking.

10. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the chicken breasts. Pour marinara sauce generously over each piece, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or spoon. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
11. Bake in preheated oven at 375°F (about 190°C) for approximately 20 minutes, ensuring that the chicken is fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serving.

13. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if preferred. Serve hot with pasta or a side salad.

Cooking Time:

• Total preparation time: Approximately 30-45 minutes for assembly, baking, and final steps.
• Prep time (excluding cooking): About 15 minutes to mix ingredients and bread the chicken breasts.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) until done – about 20 minutes.

Servings:

This recipe yields approximately four servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or an elegant weeknight meal. Adjust portion sizes based on individual appetite and dietary preferences.

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving):

• Calories: 500 kcal
• Fat Content: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Protein: 45g

Tips for Success:

• Ensure the chicken is patted dry before coating it in flour and breadcrumbs. This prevents the breaded coating from becoming soggy during cooking.
• If you prefer a richer sauce, consider adding more garlic to your marinara or using fresh herbs such as oregano instead of dried ones.
• You can substitute regular breadcrumbs for panko crumbs if unavailable, though panko results in a crispier crust.

Conclusion:

Chicken Parmesan is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines simplicity with delicious flavor. By following these straightforward steps, you'll be able to create this beloved Italian-American classic right at home. Whether enjoyed as part of a weekly menu rotation or as a special treat for company, Chicken Parmesan provides both comfort food satisfaction and memorable family meals.