Delicious Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines juicy chicken tenders with creamy tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This classic recipe has been popular for years due to its savory flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility in serving.

This comforting dish pairs well with various sides such as pasta or crusty bread. The cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, and it yields about four servings.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided use
2 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Rolled up pieces of garlic bread (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the breading station by placing the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning in separate shallow bowls. Crack two eggs into another bowl and whisk them until well combined but not foamy.
Use a knife to cut each chicken breast horizontally into three strips. Coat one side of each strip with egg wash, then dip it into the breadcrumb mixture ensuring full coverage on both sides. Press gently so that the crumbs adhere properly. Place the coated strips onto a baking sheet and refrigerate for about 15 minutes.
Heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add half of your chicken pieces to the pan without overcrowding them; let them sear until golden brown on each side (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove from the skillet and place back into the baking sheet.
For the remaining chicken strips, repeat steps three and four. While still cooking in batches, spoon some marinara sauce generously over every piece of breaded chicken before adding the second batch to the pan. Continue this process until all pieces have been breaded and cooked.
Once all chicken is cooked, spread half of your shredded mozzarella evenly across each piece of breaded chicken. Sprinkle another ½ cup on top. Arrange the assembled pieces back into the preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until the cheese has melted and turned golden brown.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving hot with your favorite side dishes like garlic bread rolls. Enjoy this tasty meal either at home or as a perfect party dish!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

The nutritional details can vary based on ingredients used but typically include approximately:

Calories: ~450 kcal
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results:

The chicken should be cut horizontally to maintain even thickness, making it easier to coat and cook evenly.
Keep the breading mixture well-mixed to avoid lumps which could lead to uneven texture on the chicken once cooked.
Cooking in batches helps prevent overcrowding, ensuring each piece gets a good sear without losing its shape or becoming soggy inside.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan remains one of those dishes that can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere. Its ability to satisfy both grown-ups and kids makes it a versatile meal option for various occasions—from casual dinners at home to special gatherings like family reunions or holiday celebrations.