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Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Flatten the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
- Prepare Three Bowls: In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes, if using.
3. Bread the Chicken
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat for all chicken breasts.
4. Fry the Chicken
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Assemble the Dish
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Layer with Sauce and Cheese: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Spoon more marinara sauce over each chicken breast and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake
- Melt the Cheese: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve
- Garnish and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot, either on its own or over a bed of cooked pasta.
Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and homemade marinara sauce can elevate the dish to another level of flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: Using a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan adds depth to the flavor and a delightful cheesy texture.
- Make It Ahead: Chicken Parmesan can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat in the oven until heated through.
Variations
- Eggplant Parmesan: For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with sliced and breaded eggplant.
- Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara for an extra kick.
- Pesto Chicken Parmesan: Spread a layer of pesto over the chicken before adding the marinara for a fresh, herby flavor.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Parmesan
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The crispy chicken, tangy marinara, and melted cheese create a comforting dish that everyone will love.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Chicken Parmesan can be served in various ways, whether over pasta, on a sub roll for a sandwich, or with a side of vegetables.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish keeps well, making it an excellent option for meal prepping for the week.
Health Benefits
- Protein-Packed: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and overall health.
- Nutrient-Rich Sauce: Marinara sauce is typically made from tomatoes, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, particularly vitamin C.
Pairing Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for a complete Italian experience.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the Chicken Parmesan.
- Wine: Pair with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, to complement the flavors of the dish.
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan is a classic dish that never goes out of style. With its crispy exterior, flavorful marinara, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to be a hit at any table. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of Chicken Parmesan, and make it a part of your culinary repertoire!