How to Make a Delicious Italian Classic: Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved classic in the world of Italian cuisine, combining tender chicken cutlets with rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile enough for both casual dinners and special occasions. Perfectly browned chicken pieces are layered between slices of fresh mozzarella, drenched in tangy sauce, and baked until bubbly. Serve it over a side of pasta or polenta for an extra indulgent meal.

The beauty of Chicken Parmesan lies not only in its taste but also in the simplicity of its ingredients and preparation method. You can use boneless chicken breasts, which are readily available at most grocery stores. The cooking time is relatively short, approximately 45 minutes including prep work, making it a quick and satisfying option for busy weeknights.

Chicken Parmesan serves four people generously. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs beaten
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (fresh or panko)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 jar of your favorite marinara sauce
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced thinly
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Olive oil

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, set aside all ingredients. Begin with preparing the breading station: place the flour in a wide shallow dish; crack the eggs into another bowl and whisk them lightly until well combined but not frothy; pour breadcrumbs into a third dish.

Season both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper. Dredge one piece at a time in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess before dipping it in beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with bread crumbs pressing gently so they adhere properly to form an even coating. Transfer coated pieces back onto a plate until you’ve done all four breasts.

Heat some olive oil over medium heat in your skillet or non-stick pan; once hot enough that you can drop a small amount of water into it and see bubbles forming immediately, add two chicken cutlets carefully so they don’t splatter. Cook each side for about 3 minutes until nicely golden brown before flipping to cook the other sides thoroughly. Repeat this process with remaining pieces.

Once cooked through, place chicken cutlets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or foil, ensuring that there is enough space between them as they will expand while cooking. Top each piece of chicken generously with slices of mozzarella cheese, then spoon some marinara sauce over top; cover the entire surface evenly so all parts are coated.

Transfer your assembled dish into preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. Allow it to rest briefly before serving; garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

To enjoy this delightful meal, pair Chicken Parmesan with your favorite side dishes like garlic breadsticks, steamed green vegetables, or a simple salad. For an even heartier experience, consider pairing it with pasta such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine tossed in olive oil and Parmesan to capture the essence of true Italian flavors.

Chicken Parmesan has stood the test of time because its simplicity allows for endless variations. You can try adding extra herbs like rosemary or oregano during cooking for added depth, or incorporate other cheeses such as provolone or parmesan if you prefer different textures and tastes. Experiment with different types of flour – whole wheat flour adds more nutritional value while almond flour gives a nutty flavor.

Chicken Parmesan remains a fan favorite among those seeking comfort food that’s richly satisfying yet easy enough to prepare at home on any given day. Whether enjoyed as an intimate family meal or shared between friends, this dish promises joy and delicious satisfaction every time it's served.