Easy Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that has won the hearts of many food enthusiasts with its savory and tangy flavors. The recipe for this delectable meal combines tender, breaded chicken cutlets layered between juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese, all smothered in a rich, sauce of tomato and herbs. It's a versatile and comforting dinner option that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Cooking time: 1 hour

Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
• 6 chicken cutlets, pounded to about 1/4 inch thick
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the breadcrumbs mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, 3/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. Stir well to mix.
2. Bread the chicken cutlets: Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg wash, then press both sides firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently but thoroughly so that the coating adheres evenly to the chicken.
3. Fry the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is hot but not smoking. Fry the breaded chicken cutlets for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
4. Cook the sauce: In the same skillet used for frying the chicken, add the marinara sauce. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and thoroughly combined with the sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Bake the chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer half of the mozzarella cheese slices over the bottom. Place the fried chicken cutlets on top of the cheese and cover with another layer of mozzarella cheese slices.
6. Topping: Pour the simmered marinara sauce evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle more grated Parmesan cheese (2 tablespoons) and a little bit of fresh Italian herbs for extra flavor.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until the chicken is completely cooked through and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Be sure to check it halfway through to ensure everything is browning nicely.
8. Serve: Once done, let the dish cool for a few moments before serving. Serve hot with pasta or crusty bread on the side if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• You can prepare this dish ahead of time by frying the chicken cutlets, coating them in breadcrumbs, and storing them in an airtight container. When you are ready to cook, simply layer them with sauce and cheese in a baking dish and bake as directed.
• To make the dish more kid-friendly, you can add finely chopped vegetables such as spinach or zucchini into the marinara sauce for extra nutrition without altering its taste much.
• For a lighter option, you could use whole wheat pasta instead of white pasta and substitute the regular cheese with low-fat mozzarella to reduce the calorie content while keeping the flavor intact.

Note: Always ensure that chicken is thoroughly cooked to avoid any risks associated with foodborne illnesses. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) should be achieved when checking the thickest part of each piece of meat, or you can use a digital thermometer for accurate measurement.

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also serves as an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients needed by growing bodies. Easy Chicken Parmesan is perfect for busy weeknight dinners as it requires minimal time investment while delivering maximum satisfaction. With its delightful combination of flavors, this meal will surely become a favorite in your household.