chicken paresman

Instructions for Making Chicken Parmesan

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Flatten the Chicken Breasts: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
2. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

1. Set Up the Breading Stations: Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumbs mixed with 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and oregano in a third dish.
2. Dredge the Chicken: Coat each chicken breast in the flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the Chicken: Add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Add the Chicken: Place the fried chicken breasts in the baking dish. Top each one with the remaining marinara sauce, then sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves over the top before serving for an extra touch of flavor.
2. Enjoy: Serve the Chicken Parmesan over pasta or with a side of garlic bread.

Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan

• Don’t Skip the Frying Step: Frying the breaded chicken before baking ensures a crispy texture. You can bake it entirely, but it may not have the same crunch.
• Use Fresh Mozzarella if Possible: Fresh mozzarella will melt better and add a creamier texture.
• Season the Breading Well: Adding garlic powder, oregano, and Parmesan to the breadcrumbs gives the chicken extra flavor.

Variations to Try

1. Make It Healthier: Use whole wheat breadcrumbs and bake the chicken instead of frying for a lighter version.
2. Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a little kick.
3. Extra Cheesy: For a more indulgent dish, add an extra layer of cheese on top of the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

• Over Pasta: Classic spaghetti marinara or fettuccine Alfredo are perfect accompaniments.
• With a Side Salad: A simple Caesar or garden salad balances the richness of the Chicken Parmesan.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish.

How to Store and Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze the cooked chicken without the marinara sauce for up to 2 months. Add sauce and cheese before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use a microwave for quicker reheating.

Why Chicken Parmesan is a Classic Dish

Chicken Parmesan’s popularity stems from its simple, comforting flavors and the ease with which it can be customized. The crispy breaded chicken topped with a tangy marinara sauce and melted cheese appeals to all ages, making it a perfect family meal. It’s versatile enough to enjoy on a weeknight yet special enough for a celebratory dinner.

Conclusion

This Chicken Parmesan Recipe brings the best of Italian-American cuisine to your table with minimal effort. With crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s no wonder this dish has become a classic favorite. Perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or even impressing guests, this easy Chicken Parmesan recipe is one you’ll turn to time and time again. Try it out, and enjoy a little taste of Italy at home!