Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to prepare the most mouthwatering and delectable Chicken Parmesan dish that will leave your taste buds craving for more. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating the perfect Chicken Parmesan, ensuring it turns out to be an absolute culinary masterpiece.
What is Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish that combines breaded and fried chicken cutlets with savory tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This delightful combination of flavors and textures has made Chicken Parmesan a beloved favorite in households and restaurants alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To get started on this culinary journey, make sure you have the following high-quality ingredients at hand:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Olive oil for frying
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preparing the Chicken
- Start by placing each chicken breast between plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This step ensures even cooking and tender chicken.
2. Creating the Breading Station
- In three separate shallow dishes, set up a breading station. In the first dish, add the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In the third dish, whisk the eggs.
3. Breading the Chicken
- Dip each chicken breast into the flour, coating both sides and shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it is evenly covered.
4. Frying the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Place the cooked chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
5. Assembling the Chicken Parmesan
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Cover each piece with a generous amount of marinara sauce and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
6. Baking the Chicken Parmesan
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnishing and Serving
- Once out of the oven, let the Chicken Parmesan rest for a few minutes before garnishing it with fresh basil leaves. Serve the dish alongside your favorite pasta or as a hearty sandwich on crusty bread.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully mastered the art of making Chicken Parmesan, a delicious and satisfying dish that will surely impress your family and friends. The blend of flavors from the crispy breaded chicken, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese creates an irresistible combination that is hard to resist.
Remember, cooking is an adventure, and you can always tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps diligently, and indulge in the delightful experience of savoring your homemade Chicken Parmesan. Happy cooking!