Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that has been cherished by many for its delicious combination of tender chicken and savory tomato sauce topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This beloved meal can be prepared in your home kitchen using simple ingredients, resulting in a comforting yet flavorful dish perfect for any day of the week.

Let's get started on making this delightful dish! Chicken Parmesan is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With just about 45 minutes needed for cooking, you can enjoy homemade chicken Parmesan with your loved ones. It serves approximately four people, which makes it an ideal choice for a family dinner or a casual gathering.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this hearty dish:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 lb/0.5 kg)
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs or panko crumbs
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
• 1 can (about 28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, but adds a nice touch)

Steps to Make Chicken Parmesan

1. Preparation: Start by preparing the coating mix. In a shallow dish or pie plate, combine the Italian breadcrumbs with salt and pepper. In another bowl, mix together the eggs. For the final part of your coating, place the mozzarella cheese in a separate small bowl.
2. Breading the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg until it is thoroughly coated. Then press the breaded side onto the breadcrumb mixture to cover completely. Repeat this process with all four pieces of chicken.
3. Frying the Chicken: Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place two chicken breasts at a time into the pan, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook until golden brown on one side (about 4-5 minutes), then flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet once both sides have been cooked through.
4. Assembling the Dish: In a large bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes with grated Parmesan cheese if using. Add the fried chicken to the sauce, cover it, and let simmer for about 10 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly heated through.
5. Serving: Once done, remove from heat and garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot alongside some garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal that will keep everyone happy!

Tips for a Perfect Chicken Parmesan

To ensure the best results when making chicken Parmesan at home, consider these tips:

• Make sure to use fresh bread crumbs and not stale ones as they will give better texture.
• The egg should be beaten well; otherwise, the coating might fall off during frying. Beaten eggs also help in creating a crispy exterior on your chicken pieces.
• Use enough olive oil for deep-frying to avoid sticking and ensure even browning of the chicken breast.

Conclusion

Cooking Chicken Parmesan at home is not only fun but also incredibly rewarding. The satisfaction you get from preparing this iconic dish can be shared with friends or family members who will appreciate your efforts in bringing a piece of Italy to their table. Whether served as part of a special occasion meal or simply enjoyed during a casual Friday evening, chicken Parmesan remains one of those comfort foods that never disappoints.

Remember, the key to making delicious Chicken Parmesan lies not only in following these steps accurately but also in adjusting the spices and sauces according to your personal taste preferences. With practice, you'll find yourself getting better each time, making this dish a favorite for many who have tried it!