Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish that features breaded and fried chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This classic comfort food is both satisfying and delicious, making it a popular choice for home cooks and restaurant-goers alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Pasta (optional)
Instructions:
- Pound the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Dredge in flour: Dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in egg: Dip the chicken in the beaten eggs.
- Coat in breadcrumbs: Coat the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing the breadcrumbs firmly into the chicken.
- Fry the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Bake the chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the fried chicken in a baking dish and top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Serve the chicken Parmesan with pasta, if desired. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan:
- Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are larger and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, making them ideal for this dish.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken will not cook evenly and may become soggy.
- Let the chicken rest: After frying the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before baking. This will help the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Make your own marinara sauce: For the best flavor, make your own marinara sauce from scratch. However, if you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought jarred sauce.
Chicken Parmesan is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this classic dish is sure to please.
