Homemade Chicken Parmesan: A Classic Italian Favorite

Chicken Parmesan is one of those classic Italian dishes that you can't seem to get enough of! Whether it’s served over a bed of pasta or as an indulgent main course, this comforting dish brings together the best flavors of Italy. In this recipe, we’re taking home-cooked Chicken Parmesan to the next level with a simple yet delicious approach that will leave your family asking for more.

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Serving size: 4 servings

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips)
• Cooking oil spray for greasing the baking dish
• All-purpose flour for coating the chicken
• Bread crumbs, fresh or homemade
• Parmesan cheese shredded and freshly grated
• 2 large eggs beaten well
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
• 1 jar marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought
• Ricotta cheese as needed for topping (optional)
• Mozzarella cheese slices and/or shredded mozzarella (for serving)

Steps to Prepare Chicken Parmesan:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spray a large baking dish with cooking oil spray so that the chicken strips won’t stick during baking.

2. Set up three shallow bowls: one for flour, another for beaten eggs mixed with spices like garlic powder and salt, and finally, the bread crumbs and Parmesan combined in the last bowl. This will be used to coat your chicken strips before cooking.

3. Dip each strip of chicken first into the flour until it's coated evenly on all sides. Shake off any excess flour.

4. Next, dip the floured chicken into beaten eggs and spices mixture making sure that every part is well-coated with a thin layer.

5. Coat the dipped chicken with bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese mix so that it's fully covered. Press gently to adhere better.

6. Fry each coated chicken strip in hot oil for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown on both sides, then transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.

7. Spread marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Arrange fried and breaded chicken strips carefully on top of this sauce layer. You may choose to add some ricotta cheese before placing chicken strips if you prefer creamier texture; however, this step isn't necessary.

8. Cover the chicken with additional slices of mozzarella or shredded mozzarella, depending on how much melting you like in your dish. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for added flavor.

9. Bake at 375°F until the cheese is melted and bubbling hot (about 20-25 minutes), checking halfway through to ensure that there’s no overcooking if any part remains undercooked inside. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.

Tips and Variations:

• For extra flavor: Add fresh basil leaves while baking or add a tablespoon of white wine during cooking to enhance the overall taste.
• Substitute options: If you want something different but still within the Italian theme, consider using veal cutlets instead of chicken breasts for a richer texture. For those following vegetarian diets, you could try zucchini or eggplant slices layered between marinara and mozzarella.

This homemade Chicken Parmesan is not only delicious but also extremely versatile; it can serve as an everyday family dinner or be elevated into a special occasion dish by serving with garlic bread and crisp green salad. The simplicity of ingredients combined with the depth of flavors makes this meal perfect for beginners as well as experienced cooks alike.

Enjoy your cooking experience! This dish is sure to become a favorite among all who taste it, especially when presented in such an inviting manner right out of the oven.