How to Make a Delicious Chicken Parmesan

Keyword: Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is one of the most beloved Italian-American dishes that many people enjoy for its simplicity and deliciousness. It’s made with juicy, tender chicken breast coated in breadcrumbs, then sautéed until golden brown before being piled on top of a tangy tomato sauce and cheese. This dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it a staple at family dinners or casual gatherings.

For this recipe, you will need four servings of delicious chicken Parmesan, which should take around 35 minutes to prepare from start to finish. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 jar of your favorite marinara sauce (about 24 oz)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Preparation

1. Cut the chicken into serving sizes: Start by trimming any excess fat from your chicken breasts. Then, cut them into even-sized pieces so that they cook uniformly.
2. Mix the breadcrumbs with salt and pepper: In a shallow bowl, combine the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs along with some salt and pepper to taste.
3. Fry the eggs: Crack two large eggs into another bowl. Whisk them together until they are frothy but still somewhat runny. This will help bind the breadcrumbs onto the chicken when you coat it later.
4. Dip the chicken in egg: Dip each piece of breaded chicken into the whisked eggs, ensuring that both sides are thoroughly covered. This step helps to form a better coating and ensures the breadcrumbs stick well during frying.
5. Cook the chicken: Heat up 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmering but not smoking. Carefully add your battered chicken pieces, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked through (check with a meat thermometer to reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F).
6. Serve the dish: While the chicken is cooking, pour your marinara sauce into a baking dish. Once the chicken has cooled slightly from its cooking process, gently place each piece on top of the sauce. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake in an oven preheated at 400°F for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and enjoy: Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves or parsley if desired, then serve hot. Chicken Parmesan pairs wonderfully well with a side of pasta or simply on its own over a bed of lettuce for a healthier version!

Tips and Variations

To make this recipe even more flavorful, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs mixture for a bit of heat. For a lower-carb option, replace the traditional bread crumbs with almond flour or panko crumbs.

If you’re looking to make a healthier version of this classic dish, you can prepare it without frying the chicken by simply pan-searing it in a non-stick skillet with some olive oil and then adding it directly into the baking dish. This reduces the fat content significantly while maintaining a crispy exterior.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan is not only a comforting meal but also a versatile one that can be adapted to various dietary needs. By following this simple recipe, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying dinner waiting for your family or friends. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, Chicken Parmesan should definitely be part of your repertoire!