Delicious Chicken Parmesan Recipe: A Classic Italian Favorite

Chicken Parmesan is one of those comforting dishes that have become a classic for many families across the globe. This beloved dish combines tender pieces of chicken with a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, all nestled on top of a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine pasta. The result? A melt-in-your-mouth culinary experience that's both satisfying and versatile.

Chicken Parmesan has been a staple in Italian-American households for decades, but its popularity extends far beyond the borders of Italy. This dish is loved by all ages and can be easily customized to cater to different dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, Chicken Parmesan is sure to please.

Ingredients for this delicious recipe include boneless chicken breasts, marinara sauce (or any red sauce), mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. Let's dive into the steps of making this savory dish:

Preparation Steps

• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4-6 people

1. Begin by preparing your ingredients. Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.

2. Next, create a breadcrumb mixture in a shallow dish or bowl. You can mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

3. Dip each chicken piece into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture to coat both sides thoroughly.

4. In a separate pan over medium heat, add olive oil and let it get hot but not smoking. Place the breaded chicken in the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides. This should take around 5-7 minutes per side.

5. While your chicken is cooking, prepare your sauce by heating up canned or freshly made marinara sauce in a large pot or saucepan over medium heat. You can also add fresh garlic and herbs for extra flavor if desired.

6. Once the chicken pieces are browned and crispy, transfer them to a baking dish. Pour the hot marinara sauce evenly over the top of each piece of chicken.

7. Add slices of mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast. The melted cheese will create a delicious topping that is both cheesy and gooey.

8. Place the baking dish in an oven preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 Celsius). Bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.

9. To serve, spoon over additional marinara sauce if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves for a vibrant presentation.

Tips and Variations

Chicken Parmesan can be served in various ways to suit different preferences. Here are some tips that will help you customize this dish:

• Add extra vegetables: For a healthier option or just something extra, include steamed broccoli or zucchini with the chicken.
• Change the sauce: Experiment with different types of pasta sauces such as pesto or Alfredo to create unique variations of Chicken Parmesan.
• Chef's trick for breading: If you prefer not using breadcrumbs, try coating the chicken in panko bread crumbs instead. It gives a crisper texture.
• Baking or frying? While traditional Chicken Parmesan is baked, some people like to fry the chicken pieces before adding them to the sauce for added crispiness.

Chicken Parmesan is not only delicious but also very versatile. This meal can be served with various side dishes such as garlic bread, mixed greens salad, or simply a simple green vegetable. It's the perfect dish to make during colder months when you want something warm and comforting for dinner.

If you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner that will leave your family satisfied, Chicken Parmesan is definitely worth trying out in your kitchen. With its simplicity of ingredients and preparation, this Italian classic can be made with ease by both novice and experienced chefs alike.