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Chicken Parmesan





Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Description

Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines crispy breaded chicken cutlets, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite comfort food for many. Whether served over a bed of pasta or with a side of vegetables, Chicken Parmesan is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to delight your family and friends.

Ingredients – Chicken Parmesan

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 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup olive oil for frying

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)

For Assembly:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
  • Cooked pasta or a side of your choice for serving

Instructions Step-by-Step to Make Chicken Parmesan

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Pound the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
  2. Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  3. Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, paprika, and black pepper.
  4. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Fry the Chicken: Working in batches if necessary, add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  2. Make the Tomato Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using) to the saucepan. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Assemble the Chicken Parmesan: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Place the cooked chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Spoon additional sauce over each chicken breast. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  3. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve the Chicken Parmesan over cooked pasta or with a side of your choice.

Tips and Variations on Chicken Parmesan

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Cheese Variations: For a richer flavor, try using a combination of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheese.
  • Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with thick slices of eggplant to make Eggplant Parmesan.
  • Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a bit of heat.
  • Healthier Option: Bake the breaded chicken instead of frying it to reduce the amount of oil used.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 550
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 900mg

Historical Facts about Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan, or Chicken Parmigiana, is a dish that has its roots in Italian cuisine but has been widely popularized in the United States. It is believed to have evolved from the Italian dish Melanzane alla Parmigiana, which is made with eggplant. Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to America, where they adapted recipes using available ingredients. Chicken was more abundant and affordable than eggplant, leading to the creation of Chicken Parmesan.

In Italy, the use of Parmesan cheese and tomato sauce with breaded ingredients is a traditional method of cooking. The combination of these elements in Chicken Parmesan reflects the adaptation of Italian cooking methods to American tastes and ingredients. Over time, this dish has become a staple in Italian-American cuisine, beloved for its comforting and familiar flavors.

Chicken Parmesan in Modern Cuisine

Today, Chicken Parmesan is a ubiquitous dish found in Italian restaurants across the United States and other countries. It has also become a popular homemade dish, enjoyed for its simplicity and deliciousness. Variations of Chicken Parmesan can be found on menus, including sandwiches, pizzas, and even as a topping for salads.

The versatility of Chicken Parmesan makes it a dish that can be customized to suit different preferences and dietary needs. Whether served in a traditional manner or with a modern twist, Chicken Parmesan remains a beloved favorite for many.

Seasonal Variations of Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan can be adapted to suit different seasons by incorporating seasonal ingredients and flavors:

  • Spring: Serve Chicken Parmesan with a side of fresh spring vegetables such as asparagus or peas.
  • Summer: Add a light and refreshing tomato and basil salad as a side dish.
  • Autumn: Incorporate roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips as a hearty side.
  • Winter: Serve with a side of warm, roasted Brussels sprouts or a comforting bowl of soup.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Parmesan is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:

  • Pasta: Serve over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine with additional tomato sauce.
  • Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
  • Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Experiment with different sides and serving options to create a Chicken Parmesan meal that suits your taste and the occasion.