*Chicken Parmesan: A Classic Italian-American Dish*

Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a beloved Italian-American dish that consists of breaded and fried chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.

*Characteristics : Crispy exterior, Juicy interior, Flavorful sauce, Melty cheese.

 

Here’s a comprehensive recipe for Chicken Parmesan:

Ingredients

*For the Chicken*

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– 2 eggs

– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

 

*For the Sauce*

– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

 

*For the Assembly*

1. Fresh basil leaves

2. Extra virgin olive oil

3. Pasta or garlic bread for serving (optional)

 

Instructions

*Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station*

1. In a first preparation, mix together flour, salt, pepper and Italian seasoning.

2. In another preparation, beat eggs. (Whisk)

3. In a third dish, combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

 

*Step 2: Bread the Chicken*

1. Dip each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.

2. Dip in eggs, coating completely.

3. Roll in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

 

*Step 3: Fry the Chicken*

1. In a large skillet, heat 1/2 inch of deep olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Fry breaded chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes per side).

 

*Step 4: Assemble and Bake*

1. Transfer fried chicken to a baking dish.

2. Spoon marinara sauce over each breast.

3. Top with mozzarella cheese.

4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.

5. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until cheese melts and bubbles.

 

*Step 5: Serve and Garnish*

1. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

2. Serve hot with pasta, garlic bread or a green salad.

Enjoy your homemade chicken parmesan

 

Here are some serving ideas for chicken parmesan:

 

Classic Options

1. *Spaghetti and Marinara*: Serve chicken parmesan with a side of spaghetti and marinara sauce for a traditional Italian-American meal.

2. *Garlic Bread*: Offer garlic bread on the side to mop up the marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.

 

Modern Twists

1. *Caprese Salad*: Pair chicken parmesan with a fresh Caprese salad (tomato, mozzarella, basil) for a lighter, refreshing option.

2. *Roasted Vegetables*: Serve chicken parmesan with a variety of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli, for a well-rounded meal.

 

Sandwiches and Wraps

1. *Parmesan Sub*: Serve chicken parmesan on a sub roll with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.

2. *Parmesan Wrap*: Offer a chicken parmesan wrap with lettuce, tomato, and Italian dressing for a convenient, portable meal.

 

Pasta Variations

1. *Fettuccine Alfredo*: Serve chicken parmesan with fettuccine Alfredo for a rich, creamy pasta dish.

2. *Penne with Arrabbiata Sauce*: Pair chicken parmesan with penne pasta and arrabbiata sauce for a spicy, flavorful meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Over mixing breadcrumb mixture.

2. Undercooking or overcooking chicken.

3. Not pressing breadcrumb coating onto chicken.

4. Using low-quality ingredients.

 

Storage and Reheating

1. Store leftover chicken parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

 

Recipe Variations

1. Parmesan Sandwiches: Serve on a sub roll with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.

2. Parmesan Pasta Bake: Toss cooked pasta with marinara sauce, chicken and mozzarella cheese. Bake until golden brown.

3. Parmesan Casserole: Layer chicken, marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese in a baking dish. Bake until golden brown.

 

Expert Tips

1. Use high-quality ingredients for best flavor.

2. Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying.

3. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

 

History of Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan originated in Italy as “Chicken Parmigiana,” a dish made with breaded and fried chicken topped with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. It gained popularity in the United States in the 1960s and has since become a staple of Italian-American cuisine.

 

Fun Facts

1. Parmesan is a popular dish in Italian restaurants worldwide.

2. The dish is often served with a side of pasta or garlic bread.

3. parmesan is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or appetizer.

 

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content of chicken parmesan:

 

Traditional Chicken Parmesan

Per serving (assuming 1 breaded and fried chicken breast cutlet topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese):

 

1. *Calories*: 550-700

2. *Protein*: 35-40 grams

3. *Fat*: 25-35 grams (mostly from breading, frying, and cheese)

4. *Saturated Fat*: 8-10 grams

5. *Cholesterol*: 60-80 milligrams

6. *Carbohydrates*: 30-40 grams (from breading, marinara sauce, and cheese)

7. *Fiber*: 2-3 grams

8. *Sodium*: 800-1000 milligrams

9. *Sugar*: 5-7 grams

 

Baked Chicken Parmesan (Healthier Alternative)

Per serving (assuming 1 breaded and baked chicken breast cutlet topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese):

 

1. *Calories*: 350-450

2. *Protein*: 30-35 grams

3. *Fat*: 10-15 grams

4. *Saturated Fat*: 3-5 grams

5. *Cholesterol*: 60-80 milligrams

6. *Carbohydrates*: 20-25 grams

7. *Fiber*: 2-3 grams

8. *Sodium*: 500-700 milligrams

9. *Sugar*: 5-7 grams

 

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary depending on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and cooking methods.

 

 

( You can read also how to make delicious chicken lasagna )