Homemade Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender, breaded chicken cutlets with a rich tomato-based sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The combination of flavors—salty, savory, and slightly tangy from the tomatoes—makes it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This recipe will guide you through making a delicious homemade version of this beloved dish.

For this recipe, you’ll need:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
2 eggs, beaten
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 jar (24 oz) of marinara sauce
1 block (16 oz) of mozzarella cheese, sliced or grated
Cooking spray

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total preparation time: 30 minutesTotal cooking time: 45 minutesNumber of servings: 4

Steps to Make Homemade Chicken Parmesan:

Breading the chicken: Begin by preparing your breading station. On one plate, mix breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning. In another bowl, beat two eggs well.
Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise if they are thick to ensure even cooking and easier serving. If using thinner pieces, skip this step. Lightly coat the chicken pieces first with flour (optional) to prevent too much oil from seeping into the meat during frying or grilling.
Coat each piece of breaded chicken in beaten egg, making sure all sides are covered evenly. Then press the coated chicken into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated on all sides. This will help create a crispy crust when baked.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place two pieces of breaded chicken in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Drain excess fat onto paper towels before transferring to a baking dish. Repeat with remaining chicken.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, combine marinara sauce and grated mozzarella cheese. Pour the mixture evenly over the breaded chicken pieces in the baking dish.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or place it under a broiler. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling hot.
Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve immediately over pasta, such as penne or fusilli, if desired.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Parmesan:

Cooking the chicken slowly: Ensuring your chicken is cooked through but not dry can be challenging; slow-cooking helps achieve that texture. Start with breading and lightly coating the chicken before frying to lock in moisture.
Selecting the right cheese: Fresh mozzarella works best for this dish as it melts smoothly into the sauce without turning rubbery or separating. If using part-skim or low-fat versions, you may need more cooking time due to lower fat content which can affect texture.
Baking versus frying: For a healthier option, try baking your chicken instead of frying. This method reduces calorie intake while still achieving a crispy exterior without the extra oil.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

The nutritional information can vary depending on ingredients used and portion sizes but generally includes:

Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Fat: About 15 grams
Saturated Fat: Around 3 grams
Protein: Over 40 grams
Total Carbs: Just under 20 grams, including fiber and sugar.

Conclusion

Homemade Chicken Parmesan is a delightful dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you choose to bake or fry your chicken, the flavors and textures of this Italian-American favorite are sure to please both children and adults alike. Try this recipe at home and enjoy a meal filled with comfort and rich flavors.

Chicken Parmesan is not only about indulging in deliciousness but also creating memories within family and friends around the table. With its versatile ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for casual dinners or special occasions. Happy cooking!