Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved classic Italian-American dish that has found its way into the hearts of many home cooks and diners alike. This flavorful recipe features juicy chicken tenders layered with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs, all baked to perfection until golden brown. It’s easy to make at home, and you’ll be surprised by how delicious it can be!

Chicken Parmesan is a versatile meal that pairs well with a side of garlic bread or spaghetti for a complete feast. The dish typically takes about 45 minutes to prepare from start to finish, and serves four generous portions.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders (boneless, skinless)
• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cans (28 oz each) marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil for brushing the baking dish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly brush a large baking dish or casserole with olive oil.

2. In a shallow bowl, mix the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs. In another shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.

3. Coat each chicken tender by first dipping it in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess, then pressing it into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure good coating. Place coated chicken on a plate or tray.

4. In a skillet over medium heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the chicken tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding and allow for even cooking. Cook until golden brown on both sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per batch.

5. Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a baking dish and set aside. Pour half of the marinara sauce evenly over each piece of chicken. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the sauce for each piece of chicken. Drizzle with olive oil.

6. Gently sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella, covering it completely. Repeat this process until all the chicken pieces are coated with marinara sauce and cheese.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite side dish such as garlic breadsticks or steamed broccoli.

Tips & Variations

• To enhance the flavor of the sauce, consider adding 1/4 cup of sugar when mixing it to balance out acidity. You could also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat if desired.

• If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of cheese or use less oil while preparing. For those who love extra richness, feel free to increase the quantity of both mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses used.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan remains one of those comforting dishes that everyone seems to enjoy. The combination of crispy breadcrumb coating, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey cheese makes it a perfect choice for any casual dinner gathering or even as an easy weekday meal. Whether you're serving it with pasta or just on its own, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Remember, the secret to achieving great results lies in proper preparation and patience during each step of cooking. With these simple techniques and ingredients, you can recreate restaurant-quality Chicken Parmesan at home any day!