When it comes to chicken parmesan, the possibilities are endless. You could go classic with a side of spaghetti and marinara. Or how about a fresh garden salad? A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can complement the richness of the dish perfectly.
For a heartier option, garlic bread or a slice of crusty Italian bread will soak up that marinara beautifully. You may even want to try some roasted vegetables on the side for an extra health boost.
Now that we’ve set up those delicious pairings, let’s dive into the enchanting world of chicken parmesan.
Growing up, chicken parmesan was a staple in my house. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a family tradition. My mom would whip it up after a long day, and the smell of that bubbling marinara sauce would bring everyone to the table, ready to dig in. There’s something about crispy chicken, melty cheese, and rich sauce that feels like a warm hug, isn’t there?
In this blog post, I’ll take you on a journey through the art of making chicken parmesan, sharing not only the recipe but also tips, tricks, and personal anecdotes that make this dish one you’ll want to share with your family.
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What is Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken parmesan, or pollo alla Parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish that combines breaded chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. The origins of chicken parmesan can be traced back to the Italian dish melanzane alla Parmigiana, which is essentially eggplant parmesan. As Italian immigrants settled in America, they adapted their recipes to include the flavors and ingredients available in their new home.
So, why do we love chicken parmesan? It’s honest, satisfying comfort food that brings us back to simpler times.
How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine biting into a piece of chicken that’s crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside. The rich marinara sauce adds brightness, while the combination of provolone and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy, savory experience.
Each forkful is a balance of textures and flavors—a perfect marriage between savory, cheesy goodness and a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes.
Why You’ll Love This?
You’ll love chicken parmesan because it’s more than just a dish. It’s comfort food that brings people together. It’s the kind of meal that can turn a Tuesday into a celebration. Plus, it’s fairly easy and straightforward to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family or trying to impress a date, chicken parmesan fits the bill.
Ingredients
Before we embark on the cooking journey, let’s gather our ingredients. Quality matters here, so opt for farm-fresh produce and high-quality cheeses. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 large farm-fresh eggs
- ¼ cup creamy fresh mozzarella, diced into small chunks
- 2 tablespoons plain all-purpose flour (adjust as necessary)
- ½ cup rich tomato-based marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded provolone cheese
- ¾ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup panko-style crispy bread crumbs (add more if needed)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup fragrant chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup light olive oil, for pan-frying (or as needed)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
First things first, let’s get organized. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This step keeps it simple and efficient.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Grab three shallow bowls. In one bowl, beat the eggs. In the second, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the third, combine panko breadcrumbs and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. You’ll create a lovely coating for your chicken fillets.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and dip it first in the flour, ensuring it’s coated, then into the egg mixture, and finally, into the breadcrumb mix. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the light olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken fillets, frying for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. It’s really important to resist the urge to move them around too much; let them get nice and crispy!
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Once the chicken is fried, place each fillet on your prepared baking sheet. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece, topping with the remaining Parmesan and provolone cheese. This is where it starts to get exciting!
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when every bite looks gooey and delicious.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves. Serve it hot, with your preferred sides, and watch everyone’s eyes light up!
Tips on Making Chicken Parmesan
Here are some expert tips to elevate your chicken parmesan game:
- Use a Meat Mallet: Flatten chicken breasts for even cooking. This way, they cook uniformly and remain tender.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After frying, allow it to rest on paper towels for a couple of minutes to absorb excess oil.
- Go Saucy: Don’t skimp on the marinara sauce. It adds moisture and flavor, making it a more cohesive dish.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Mix it up! Try adding fontina or mozzarella to the mix for a different flavor profile.
- Breadcrumb Quality Counts: Use panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. Regular breadcrumbs won’t give you the same satisfying texture.
Nutrition Information
While chicken parmesan is undeniably delicious, it’s also worth noting its nutritional aspects. Here’s a breakdown per serving (based on a standard recipe):
- Calories: Approximately 550
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 28g
Keep in mind that portion sizes can vary, so an accurate measurement depends on your serving size.
How Do You Store This Chicken Parmesan?
Leftovers? Don’t worry! Chicken parmesan stores quite well for a few days. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerate: Allow it to cool completely, then cover it snugly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes or until it’s warmed throughout.
- Freezing: If you want to extend its life further, freeze the chicken parmesan. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. It can last up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Chicken Parmesan?
Maybe you’re looking for alternatives. No problem! Here are some ideas to switch things up in your chicken parmesan:
- Zucchini Slices: Instead of chicken, use thick slices of zucchini. Bread and bake them for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Turkey Cutlets: For a leaner protein, turkey cutlets can seamlessly replace chicken. Just adjust cooking time if needed.
- Eggplant: Want a flavorsome twist? Bread and fry eggplant slices instead for a meatless version.
- Vegan Cheese: Substitute regular cheese with vegan varieties for a plant-based delight that won’t skimp on flavor.
- Low-Carb Bread Crumbs: For a healthier option, consider using almond flour or crushed pork rinds as low-carb alternatives to breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
Chicken parmesan is a dish that transcends generations. It’s all about sharing the love, whether it’s with family around the table or with friends during a casual gathering. The beauty lies in its simplicity and adaptability.
As you venture into your kitchen, remember each step is a dance of flavor and texture. Don’t stress about perfection; instead, have fun and enjoy the experience. After all, cooking is about creating lasting memories, and with this chicken parmesan recipe, you’re on your way to serving up something truly special.
Now, what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients and let’s get cooking!
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Chicken Parmesan – Cheap Delicious Meals
Description
Growing up, chicken parmesan was a staple in my house. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a family tradition. My mom would whip it up after a long day, and the smell of that bubbling marinara sauce would bring everyone to the table, ready to dig in. There’s something about crispy chicken, melty cheese, and rich sauce that feels like a warm hug, isn’t there?
In this blog post, I’ll take you on a journey through the art of making chicken parmesan, sharing not only the recipe but also tips, tricks, and personal anecdotes that make this dish one you’ll want to share with your family.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
-
First things first, let’s get organized. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This step keeps it simple and efficient.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
-
Grab three shallow bowls. In one bowl, beat the eggs. In the second, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the third, combine panko breadcrumbs and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. You’ll create a lovely coating for your chicken fillets.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
-
Take each chicken breast and dip it first in the flour, ensuring it’s coated, then into the egg mixture, and finally, into the breadcrumb mix. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken
-
In a large skillet, heat the light olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken fillets, frying for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. It’s really important to resist the urge to move them around too much; let them get nice and crispy!
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
-
Once the chicken is fried, place each fillet on your prepared baking sheet. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece, topping with the remaining Parmesan and provolone cheese. This is where it starts to get exciting!
Step 6: Bake
-
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when every bite looks gooey and delicious.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
-
Finally, remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves. Serve it hot, with your preferred sides, and watch everyone’s eyes light up!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 28g44%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Protein 35g70%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are some expert tips to elevate your chicken parmesan game:
- Use a Meat Mallet: Flatten chicken breasts for even cooking. This way, they cook uniformly and remain tender.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After frying, allow it to rest on paper towels for a couple of minutes to absorb excess oil.
- Go Saucy: Don’t skimp on the marinara sauce. It adds moisture and flavor, making it a more cohesive dish.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Mix it up! Try adding fontina or mozzarella to the mix for a different flavor profile.
- Breadcrumb Quality Counts: Use panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. Regular breadcrumbs won’t give you the same satisfying texture.
