Chicken Parmesan Recipe: A Classic Favorite

Looking for a delicious chicken Parmesan recipe that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor? This classic Italian-American dish is a favorite among many who enjoy hearty and comforting meals. If you’re looking for a quick yet impressive meal, this is the perfect choice. With tender breaded chicken pieces nestled on top of a rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, it’s no wonder why Chicken Parmesan remains popular in countless homes.

Chicken Parmesan is not only loved for its taste but also because it can be made in various ways to suit different dietary preferences. Whether you’re gluten-free or simply trying something new with your meal planning, this versatile recipe can accommodate a range of eating habits while still delivering the delightful flavors that make chicken Parmesan so beloved.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups bread crumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes with garlic and herbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board and place them between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound each piece until it is about ½ inch thick.

2. In one shallow bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a generous amount of salt and pepper. In another shallow bowl, combine flour and beaten eggs. Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, then into the egg wash, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture to coat well.

3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and transfer to an oven-safe dish lined with aluminum foil for easy removal.

4. Spread the crushed tomatoes generously over the cooked chicken pieces. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top if desired, but it’s optional as many like to serve it separately.

5. Bake in the preheated oven until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is bubbling, approximately 25-30 minutes. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes such as garlic bread or a fresh salad.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Ahead of Time

To save time during the week when you might be busy and don’t have much free time, consider preparing parts of this dish ahead. You can coat the chicken breasts in breadcrumbs and freeze them uncooked; this way, when it’s dinner time, all you need to do is sauté them in a little oil before following the rest of the recipe steps.

Similarly, if you want to prepare the sauce, you can make large batches and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. This allows you to quickly heat up the sauce whenever needed without having to start from scratch each time.

Healthier Variations for Chicken Parmesan

If you’re looking to eat healthier while enjoying this classic dish, there are several modifications you can make:

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of plain white ones. This adds more fiber and nutrients without sacrificing the texture.

• Opt for low-fat milk or egg substitute in your batter to reduce calories and fat content.

• Consider adding some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers during the baking process to increase vegetable intake while still keeping the dish hearty.

For those who are concerned about portion sizes and calorie counts, this recipe can be easily scaled down for smaller households. Just remember that reducing the serving size proportionately will also decrease the cooking time since less food requires less heating up in the oven.

Cooking Time and Servings

This Chicken Parmesan recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare once you have all your ingredients ready, plus an additional 35-40 minutes of baking time. It serves four people generously. However, feel free to adjust the portion sizes according to family size or individual preferences.

Chicken Parmesan is a timeless dish that continues to capture hearts through its simplicity and deliciousness. Whether you’re making it for yourself during a quiet evening at home or for guests during a social gathering, this recipe promises to be a hit every time. So why not give it a try today and enjoy the rich flavors of Italian cuisine?