Chicken Parmesan, with its crispy breaded chicken, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, is a classic comfort food that never fails to satisfy. This homemade version brings all the flavors of the traditional dish together in a simple yet delicious way. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy night in or when you’re craving something comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breast fillets
- 1 cup of regular flour
- 2 beaten eggs
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp of dried basil leaves
- 1 tsp of dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper as required
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 1 cup of tomato-based marinara sauce
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Use a meat mallet to even out the thickness of the chicken breasts.
- Prepare a breading station by placing three shallow dishes side by side. Fill the first dish with flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the breaded chicken breasts until they are golden brown on both sides, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and top each one with some marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve the chicken parmesan with more marinara sauce on the side and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may require a slightly longer cooking time.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to cook. Just be sure to bring the chicken to room temperature before cooking.
- Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
- Absolutely! Store-bought marinara sauce works well in this recipe. Choose your favorite brand or flavor for convenience.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken parmesan. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What side dishes pair well with chicken parmesan?
- Chicken parmesan pairs well with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for a lighter option.
- Can I use different types of cheese?
- While mozzarella cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses such as provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavor profiles.
- How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
- The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version of chicken parmesan. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Tips:
- Pound the chicken evenly: Using a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts ensures even cooking and helps tenderize the meat.
- Use a non-stick skillet: A non-stick skillet will help prevent the breading from sticking and ensure a crispy crust on the chicken.
- Top with fresh herbs: Garnish the chicken parmesan with fresh basil or parsley before serving for added flavor and freshness.
- Let it rest before serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier and more flavorful chicken.
