Perfectly Baked Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that has become beloved by many. Combining tender chicken cutlets with rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese over pasta, it's no wonder this recipe is so popular. This article will guide you through the steps to create this delicious meal in your own kitchen.

The cooking time for this recipe is approximately 1 hour, and it serves four people. Let's dive into how to prepare this delightful dish step by step.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breast cutlets
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 16 oz spaghetti or any pasta you prefer
• Extra mozzarella cheese for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by pounding each chicken breast cutlet until it is about a quarter-inch thick. This helps to ensure even cooking and makes the chicken easier to coat with breadcrumbs.

In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. In another bowl, beat two eggs well. Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg mixture, then press it gently into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring all sides are coated evenly.

Step 2: Baking

Heat up the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 205 degrees Celsius). In a baking dish large enough to hold all the chicken pieces, place them in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).

Step 3: Tomato Sauce

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes along with your choice of fresh herbs like basil and oregano. Simmer on low heat for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Assembling and Baking Again

After baking the chicken, mix it into the heated tomato sauce. Add salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavor. Spoon this mixture over a bed of cooked spaghetti, sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top, and place back in the oven for another five minutes.

Tips & Tricks

• For added moisture, consider adding some chicken broth or white wine during simmering your sauce to create more depth.
• If you want a crispier crust on your chicken Parmesan, broil it for an additional couple of minutes after baking in the oven. Just keep an eye on it so that it doesn’t burn!

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan is not just about taste; it’s also about presentation. Serve this dish with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian feast experience. This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients which can be prepared in your own kitchen to enjoy at home.

The key to successful Chicken Parmesan lies in the quality of each component used—whether that’s fresh mozzarella cheese or good-quality pasta. Don't hesitate to experiment with different types of bread crumbs, sauces, and even add some fresh vegetables for a healthier twist.