Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Gazing into the bubbling pot of marinara on the stove, I recall my first attempt at Chicken Parmesan. The enticing aroma filled the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to cherished family dinners where crispy chicken and rich sauces stole the show. The joy of creating that restaurant-quality chicken dish at home inspired me to dive deeper into the world of cooking.

With each slice of golden-cut chicken and sprinkle of cheese, I came to understand the magic that transforming everyday ingredients can bring. Chicken Parmesan stands as a favorite, perfectly marrying flavors and textures for a delightful experience.

Everyone can appreciate the convenient simplicity of this dish, making it a go-to on busy nights. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to master, even for novice cooks. This recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring that you serve up a Chicken Parmesan that wows your family and friends.

Let’s embark on this culinary journey where chicken cutlets shine in a delicious cascade of flavors, elevating your weeknight dinners to gourmet levels.

Chicken Parmesan Fundamentals

Fundamentals

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish known for its crispy chicken, melty cheese, and rich marinara. The fundamentals lie in the quality of the ingredients and the technique used to prepare the chicken. Balancing flavors and ensuring the chicken remains juicy while achieving that irresistible crunch is crucial for success.

Preparation/setup

Start by gathering all necessary ingredients. Select two boneless, skinless chicken breasts weighing about 1.5 pounds. Next, prepare your workspace with three shallow bowls for flour, eggs, and the breadcrumb mixture. This setup streamlines the breading process and keeps your kitchen organized.

Ingredients

The recipe calls for simple yet flavorful ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 egg
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cooking oil
• ½ cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

1. Use a sharp knife to filet the chicken breasts lengthwise into two cutlets.
2. Lightly season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
3. In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. In another bowl, whisk the egg until smooth.
5. Place flour in a third bowl.
6. Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, dip in egg, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
7. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
8. Flip chicken, reduce heat, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, cover skillet, and cook until cheese melts, about 5-7 minutes.
9. Top with chopped parsley if desired and serve with spaghetti.

Chicken Parmesan Technique

Technique

Perfecting the technique behind Chicken Parmesan means understanding the breading process and cooking method. Properly breading the cutlets ensures that they achieve that crunchy exterior while remaining juicy on the inside. The frying technique plays a significant role in sealing in moisture.

Tips/tricks

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of the pre-packaged variety for enhanced flavor.
• Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that ideal crispiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to keep the oil temperature steady.

Chicken Parmesan Perfecting Results

Perfecting results

Achieving the perfect Chicken Parmesan isn’t just about following the recipe. Frequent practice will help you understand each ingredient and its role in creating the final dish. Pay attention to your chicken’s color during cooking. It should be a lovely golden brown before adding sauce and cheese.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you find your breading isn’t sticking, dip the cutlet again in the egg and breadcrumbs. Alternatively, experiment with different seasoning blends to create exciting variations. You might consider adding spices like paprika or even a hint of cayenne for heat.

Chicken Parmesan Serving/presentation

Serving/presentation

Presentation elevates any dish. Serve your Chicken Parmesan hot, directly from the skillet, and garnish with fresh parsley for a colorful finish. Place it on a bed of spaghetti topped with marinara for a wholesome meal.

Pairings/storage

Pair this delightful dish with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience. Leftovers, if there are any, store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so in an oven to preserve the crispiness of the breaded chicken.

The delightful Chicken Parmesan recipe delivers on flavor and texture, making it a beloved favorite. The combination of juicy chicken, savory marinara, and gooey mozzarella cheese ensures every bite is a satisfying experience. Enjoy creating this fabulous dish for friends and family to gather around the table. Each forkful of Chicken Parmesan not only satisfies hunger but also brings joy through shared moments over delicious food. Dive into the culinary adventure of crafting your Chicken Parmesan, providing warmth and love with every meal.

Print