Chicken Parmigiana, also known as Chicken Parmesan or "Chicken Parm," is a beloved and classic Italian-American dish. Originating in Italy, this delicious comfort food has become a staple in many households around the world. The combination of breaded chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and melted cheese makes it a go-to for home cooks and Italian food lovers alike.
Ingredients List
Before you start, make sure you have all the ingredients ready:
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Olive oil for frying
For the Marinara Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Preparing the Chicken
Step-by-Step Guide
- Flatten the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- Season: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Breading and Frying
Detailed Instructions
- Set Up the Breading Station:
- In one shallow dish, place the flour.
- In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
Making the Sauce
Rich and Flavorful Marinara
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Assembling the Dish
Tips for Optimal Flavor
- Layer the Components:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
- Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
- Spoon more marinara sauce over the chicken.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves (if using).
Baking
Finishing Touches
- Bake the Chicken Parmigiana:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- If desired, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy top.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect Pairings
- Pasta: Serve with a side of spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in extra marinara sauce.
- Salad: A fresh Caesar salad or mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Bread: Garlic bread or warm, crusty Italian bread to soak up the extra sauce.
- Vegetables: Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations, you've created a delectable Chicken Parmigiana! Don't forget to savor every bite and share your culinary triumph with friends and family. Snap a photo of your masterpiece and tag us on social media to show off your cooking skills. Buon Appetito!
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