Why Chicken Parmesan is a Great Idea
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that is loved by many. It’s a simple dish that combines crispy breaded chicken with tangy tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or marinara sauce. Chicken Parmesan is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love, especially kids.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Chicken Parmesan for 4 servings:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the flour in a shallow dish. Beat the eggs in another shallow dish. In a third shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the chicken in the beaten eggs, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Spread the marinara sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve the chicken Parmesan hot with your favorite pasta or a side salad.
Variations
Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour. You can also use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles to serve with the chicken Parmesan.
Low-Carb Chicken Parmesan
To make this recipe low-carb, use almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs. You can also use spaghetti squash or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Vegetarian Eggplant Parmesan
If you’re vegetarian, you can make this recipe with eggplant instead of chicken. Slice the eggplant into rounds, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, and bake it in the oven until crispy. Then, top it with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese and bake it again until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With a crispy breaded exterior, juicy chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, it’s a classic comfort food that everyone will love. Try making this recipe today and enjoy the flavors of Italy in your own home!
FAQ
What type of chicken should I use for Chicken Parmesan?
We recommend using chicken breasts for this recipe, as they are easy to pound thin and cook quickly.
Should I use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce?
You can use either store-bought or homemade marinara sauce for Chicken Parmesan. If you are short on time, store-bought sauce is a convenient option. However, homemade sauce can add more flavor to the dish.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes, you can use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella, such as provolone or parmesan. However, mozzarella is the traditional cheese used in this dish.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Chicken Parmesan ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you are ready to serve, reheat the dish in the oven until it is heated through.
What should I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan is often served with spaghetti or another type of pasta. You can also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread.
Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the recipe?
Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the recipe. You can find them at most grocery stores or make your own by grinding gluten-free bread in a food processor.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it to make a healthier version of the dish. Preheat the oven to 400°F and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until it is cooked through.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use a different type of meat instead of chicken, such as veal or pork. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of meat you use.
Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Parmesan for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before storing it in the freezer.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature or cut into the thickest part of the chicken to make sure it is no longer pink.
