Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish that boasts a delightful combination of crispy breaded chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese.
Originating from Southern Italy, this dish has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of people worldwide due to its comforting flavors and satisfying textures.
Despite its fancy name, Chicken Parmesan is surprisingly easy to make, making it an ideal choice for both beginner and seasoned cooks alike. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can recreate this restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen.
The key to perfecting this dish lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The chicken breasts are seasoned with salt and pepper, then coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture infused with the savory goodness of Parmesan cheese.
The tomato sauce, made from scratch with fresh tomatoes and aromatic herbs, adds a vibrant burst of flavor to complement the richness of the chicken and cheese.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, Chicken Parmesan is sure to impress with its hearty appeal and crowd-pleasing taste.
Expert Tip: For a lighter version of Chicken Parmesan, use part-skim mozzarella cheese and bake the dish instead of frying the chicken.
Chicken Breasts Skinless: Chicken breasts serve as the star of this dish, providing lean protein and a neutral base for the flavorful coatings and toppings.
Plain Flour: Coating the chicken in flour before dipping it in the egg helps the breadcrumbs adhere better, resulting in a crispier and more evenly coated chicken.
Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binding agent, helping the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken and creating a golden, crispy crust when cooked.
Breadcrumbs: The crispy breadcrumb coating adds texture and crunch to the chicken, creating a satisfying contrast to the tender meat.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese lends its nutty and salty flavor to the breadcrumb mixture, elevating the taste of the chicken and adding depth to the dish.
Salt and Black Pepper: These simple seasonings enhance the flavor of the chicken and breadcrumb coating, ensuring a well-seasoned and delicious final result.
Oil: Used for frying the breaded chicken breasts, oil helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the meat moist and tender.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are the base for the homemade tomato sauce, providing a bright and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and cheese.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds aromatic flavor to the tomato sauce, infusing it with a rich and savory taste.
Oregano and Basil: Dried oregano and basil bring a fragrant herbaceousness to the tomato sauce, enhancing its depth of flavor and adding a touch of Mediterranean flair.
Sugar: A small amount of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, rounding out the flavor of the sauce and mellowing any tartness.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the garlic and simmering the tomato sauce, olive oil adds richness and depth to the dish, as well as a subtle fruity flavor.
Expert Tip: To ensure a crispy breadcrumb coating, press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken breasts before frying or baking.
Expert Tip: For an extra flavorful tomato sauce, add a splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as thighs may require slightly longer to cook through.
Absolutely! You can prepare the tomato sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Simply reheat it gently on the stove before assembling the Chicken Parmesan.
Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken breasts in the oven for a healthier alternative. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 200°C (180°C fan)/Gas mark 6 for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
While homemade tomato sauce is preferred for its fresh flavor, you can certainly use store-bought marinara sauce if you’re short on time. Just be sure to choose a high-quality sauce with natural ingredients for the best taste.
Yes, you can freeze leftover Chicken Parmesan for future meals. Wrap the cooled leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
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I love to cook! I want to share with you my favourite, delicious family-friendly recipes. I want to inspire you to create fantastic food for your family every day.
Latest comments (2)
Amazing recipe. Came out delicious and loved by all
Thank you! I’m glad everyone liked it 🙂