Chicken Parmesan: A Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistible Classic
Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines the flavors of crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. This guide will walk you through a step-by-step recipe, along with nutritional information and answers to your frequently asked questions.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe:
- Flavorful Combination: The combination of crispy chicken, tangy marinara, and melted cheese is truly irresistible.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like fresh basil, oregano, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is always a hit with family and friends, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main course with pasta, over a bed of rice, or even as a sandwich filling.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumbs.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and basil in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Assemble and Bake: Place the cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish. Top each chicken breast with a generous amount of marinara sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the Chicken Parmesan rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes, such as pasta, rice, or a salad.
Nutritional Value (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
| Calories | 400-450 |
| Protein | 30-35g |
| Fat | 15-20g |
| Saturated Fat | 6-8g |
| Cholesterol | 80-100mg |
| Sodium | 600-700mg |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20g |
| Fiber | 1-2g |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use panko breadcrumbs? Absolutely! Panko breadcrumbs will create a crispier crust.
- Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying it? Yes, you can bake the chicken breasts before assembling the dish. This can help ensure they are cooked through evenly.
- Can I use different types of cheese? Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, fontina, or even a blend of cheeses.
- How can I make this dish healthier? Use low-fat cheese and whole-wheat breadcrumbs. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a large salad.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and assemble the dish before baking. You can also reheat leftovers gently in the oven or microwave.
Enjoy this delicious and satisfying Chicken Parmesan!