Cook Up a Comforting Classic
Chicken Parmesan is not just a dish—it’s a warm embrace on a plate, perfect for any dinner occasion. This delicious recipe will guide you through making a classic Chicken Parmesan that’s sure to impress.
Recipe Overview
Yield: 4 servings
Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients You Need
To create this delectable Chicken Parmesan, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 boneless skinless chicken cutlets (or thighs)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Olive oil and/or butter, for frying
– 2 cups marinara or crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
– Fresh basil, for garnish
– Optional: lemon slices, crushed red pepper
Essential Equipment
Make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
– Meat mallet
– 3 shallow bowls
– Skillet or ovenproof skillet
– Baking dish
– Instant-read thermometer
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Using a meat mallet, butterfly or pound chicken to an even thickness, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Set up dredging stations with flour, egg wash, and a breadcrumb mixture (combined with Parmesan and Italian seasoning).
4. Dip chicken pieces in flour, then egg, followed by breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.
5. In a skillet, heat oil to medium-high. Fry chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on a rack.
6. In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, top with chicken, more sauce, and shredded cheese. Bake for 20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.
Serving Suggestions and Tips
Serve your Chicken Parmesan with pasta, a side salad, or garlic bread. To prevent a soggy crust, use a hot oven and drain excess sauce before serving. For a make-ahead option, assemble and refrigerate—just adjust cooking time accordingly. Enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with an estimated nutrition of 450 calories per serving!