How to Make Delicious Chicken Parmesan: A Classic Italian Favorite

Chicken Parmesan, a classic Italian-American dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken and marinara sauce with gooey mozzarella cheese, has captured hearts for decades. This beloved recipe is a go-to for families seeking comfort food that everyone adores. Today, we'll walk you through the steps to make this delicious dish at home.

The key to making a perfect Chicken Parmesan lies in choosing tender and juicy chicken breasts and cooking them until golden brown. Here's what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Olive oil for frying
• 1 jar (473 oz) of marinara sauce
• 1 lb mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4 generous servings

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Parmesan

To start, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This adds an extra layer of flavor that will complement the other ingredients.

In a shallow bowl, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to create a thick paste.

Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot but not smoking, dip each chicken breast into the seasoned mixture, ensuring it gets fully coated. Then place them in the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides (about 6 minutes per side). Remove from the pan and set aside.

In a separate saucepan, heat up your jar of marinara sauce over medium heat. Once warm, add sliced mozzarella cheese to the sauce until it melts completely.

To assemble the Chicken Parmesan, spread some melted mozzarella and marinara mixture on each fried chicken breast. Cover the top with another slice of mozzarella. Place the assembled pieces back in the oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until the cheese is bubbling.

While your Chicken Parmesan is baking, you can prepare a side dish such as garlic bread or steamed broccoli. For those who want an extra touch of flavor, garnish with fresh basil leaves right before serving.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan

• Breading: Ensure the breading is evenly applied so that every part of the chicken gets a perfect crust. You can lightly press the breaded chicken into the mixture to help adhere better.
• Cooking Oil: Use enough olive oil to avoid sticking, but not too much as it may make your dish greasy.
• Melting Cheese: Allow the cheese in the saucepan to melt completely before using. This ensures you get a smooth texture when spreading over the chicken breasts.
• Baking: Make sure the oven is properly heated; otherwise, the top might burn while the inside remains undercooked.

Healthier Alternatives

If you're looking to make this dish healthier or want a lighter version for those watching their waistline, consider these tips:

• Use whole wheat panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. This adds more fiber and nutrients.
• Pick low-fat chicken breasts and reduce the amount of cheese used in both the breading and topping layers.
• Switch to a lighter marinara sauce or even a tomato puree version without added fat.

Chicken Parmesan can be enjoyed as it is, but also pairs wonderfully with sides like garlic bread, mixed greens salad, or some creamy pasta. Serve immediately after baking for the best texture and flavor experience.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan is not only a delightful meal but also a versatile one that can be adapted to various dietary preferences. By following these simple steps, you too can create this iconic dish at home. Whether it's for family dinners or special occasions, Chicken Parmesan will surely become a favorite among your loved ones.

Enjoy cooking and savor every bite of this beloved Italian-American classic!