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Classic Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken cutlets, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. With its crispy breading and savory sauce, Classic Chicken Parmesan is sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to create a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian style)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
In three separate shallow dishes, set up your breading station. In the first dish, place the flour. In the second dish, whisk the eggs until well combined. In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the crumbs to the chicken.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken breasts in the dish, then spoon additional marinara sauce over each piece. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want a golden top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove the Chicken Parmesan from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot with pasta, a side salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
FAQs
What can I serve with Classic Chicken Parmesan?
Classic Chicken Parmesan pairs well with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it over a bed of sautéed vegetables for a lighter option.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and bread it ahead of time. Store the breaded chicken in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. When ready to cook, simply fry and bake as directed.
Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?
Absolutely! You can freeze the breaded chicken before frying. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To cook from frozen, bake directly in the oven, adding extra cooking time.
What type of cheese is best for Chicken Parmesan?
While mozzarella is the traditional choice for Chicken Parmesan, you can also use provolone or a blend of cheeses for added flavor. Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty depth to the dish.
Is Chicken Parmesan healthy?
Chicken Parmesan can be made healthier by baking the chicken instead of frying it and using whole-grain breadcrumbs. Additionally, you can use low-fat cheese and serve it with a side of vegetables.
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