Introduction
This recipe for Chicken Parmesan is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines crispy breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this meal is sure to please both adults and children alike. With a straightforward preparation process, you will have a delightful dish on your table in no time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
– ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ⅓ cup olive oil
– 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1¼ cups freshly grated low-moisture mozzarella cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Prep Time
Preparation time for this Chicken Parmesan is about 20 minutes. This includes slicing, pounding, and breading the chicken cutlets, as well as setting up your cooking station.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on your oven. In total, you should expect to spend around 35-40 minutes to prepare and cook this meal. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Enjoy a comforting and flavorful dish that everyone will love!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 450°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken Cutlets
Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Place them between plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness of about ¼ inch.
Step 3: Set Up Breading Station
Create a breading station with three shallow bowls:
– First bowl: Add the flour.
– Second bowl: Whisk the eggs until well mixed.
– Third bowl: Combine the breadcrumbs, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 4: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere. Place the breaded cutlets on a plate.
Step 5: Cook Chicken Cutlets
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add two chicken cutlets and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining cutlets, adding more oil if necessary.
Step 6: Add Marinara Sauce and Cheese
Spoon the marinara sauce over each cutlet. Top with mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
Step 7: Bake the Chicken
Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Chicken Preparation
Pounding the chicken cutlets to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly and remain juicy.
Breading Technique
Pressing the breadcrumbs onto the cutlets helps them adhere better, resulting in a crispier coating.
Oil Temperature
Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken; this prevents the cutlets from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.
Checking Doneness
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Variations
Feel free to add other spices or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for additional flavor, such as Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Cook techniques
Preparing Chicken Cutlets
To achieve even cooking and a tender texture, slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally and pound them to a thickness of about ¼ inch. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.
Breading Technique
Set up a three-station breading process with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This method allows for a well-adhered coating that becomes crispy when cooked.
Pan-Frying
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the breaded chicken cutlets until golden brown on both sides, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. This technique adds flavor and texture before baking.
Baking to Finish
After pan-frying, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and top with marinara sauce and cheeses. Bake at 450°F until the cheese is melted and bubbly, ensuring a delicious, cohesive dish.
Garnishing
Finish the dish with freshly chopped basil before serving to add a fresh flavor and a pop of color.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Grated Pecorino Romano cheese or nutritional yeast can be used as a substitute for Parmesan cheese.
Can I bake the chicken without frying it first?
Yes, but pan-frying adds flavor and a crispy texture. For a healthier version, you can bake the breaded cutlets directly.
What should I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
Popular sides include spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh salad to complement the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
The dish is a delightful way to enjoy chicken with a crispy, cheesy topping that complements the rich flavors of marinara sauce. It’s a comforting meal that is sure to please family and friends. Pairing with a side salad or garlic bread can elevate the dining experience even further.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
Transform the chicken cutlets into a hearty sandwich by placing them in a crusty roll with additional marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Vegetable Lasagna
Layer the remaining marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and assorted vegetables with sheets of lasagna for a fulfilling vegetarian option.
Pasta Primavera
Serve the breaded chicken cutlets alongside a colorful pasta dish filled with seasonal vegetables, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.
Stuffed Peppers
Use the same breadcrumb and cheese mixture to stuff bell peppers, topped with marinara sauce and baked until tender.
Chicken Pesto Bake
Swap marinara for pesto sauce and add sun-dried tomatoes for a delicious twist on the classic chicken bake. Top with mozzarella and extra cheese before baking.
