How to Prepare a Delicious Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a popular Italian-American dish that combines tender breaded chicken with melted mozzarella cheese and sweet tomato sauce. This classic recipe has been cherished by many for its simplicity, deliciousness, and affordability. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of preparing this delectable dish, ensuring your family and friends will love every bite.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes with garlic and herbs
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the chicken. Salt and pepper both sides of each chicken breast liberally. Set aside.

2. Create a three-step breaded coating station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs on separate plates.

3. Dip each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess; then dip in the beaten egg; finally, coat it liberally with breadcrumbs. Press the crumbs onto the chicken to adhere well.

4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Cook the breaded chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

5. Once done, place the chicken on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

6. In the same skillet, add crushed tomatoes. Simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

7. Assemble your Chicken Parmesan by placing one piece of breaded chicken in a baking dish. Pour some tomato sauce on top and cover with shredded mozzarella cheese.

8. Repeat the layering process for each chicken breast, ensuring you have enough sauce and cheese to completely cover each chicken piece.

9. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Remove from the oven, garnish with optional grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together.

To serve, slice each Chicken Parmesan piece into manageable portions and place on a plate. Serve with garlic bread or a side salad to round out the meal. You can also consider adding some pasta such as penne or spaghetti for a heartier dish.

Tip:

If you're looking to make this recipe even more unique, try adding red pepper flakes for a slight kick of heat, or substituting half of the shredded mozzarella with provolone cheese for a milder flavor. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and replace it with breaded mushrooms.

Chicken Parmesan takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people. It’s an excellent choice for dinner parties or family gatherings due to its delicious taste and easy preparation. Not only does this recipe provide a delightful meal, but it also offers the opportunity for families to bond over cooking and dining together.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Parmesan! Whether you're hosting friends for dinner or just looking for a comforting meal at home, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone's taste buds. Dive into the wonderful world of Italian-American cuisine with this simple yet satisfying recipe.