Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that has gained immense popularity due to its delightful balance of flavors and comforting texture. This versatile meal can be enjoyed as a main course for dinner or even served over pasta for a heartier meal. The recipe we are sharing today not only yields delicious results but also promises to be a simple, satisfying option for any busy evening.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs beaten
• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons olive oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cans (28 oz each) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting a Perfect Chicken Parmesan Dish

The base of this recipe is the chicken breasts, which are first seasoned and then breaded. Start by patting each chicken breast dry with paper towels to ensure it fries well.

In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, combine beaten eggs and a little bit of water until smooth. Lastly, in yet another shallow dish or pie plate, blend the Parmesan cheese.

One by one, dredge each chicken breast through the seasoned flour, then dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off, before rolling it around in the Parmesan cheese mixture. Ensure that all sides of the chicken are well coated for a crisp and golden result.

Frying the Chicken

Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil, ensuring they don't crowd the pan. Fry on one side for about three minutes or until golden brown; flip and repeat on the other side. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Assembling the Chicken Parmesan

In a saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes and fresh basil. Bring this mixture to a boil and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Once the sauce is rich in flavor, reduce the heat slightly and add salt and pepper to taste.

Once the chicken has cooled a bit, place two pieces on each plate. Pour over the tomato sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Place back into the oven and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips and Variations

For a lighter version, you can prepare this dish without frying by baking the breaded chicken in an oven. You would still need to fry it briefly before baking if there are some bread crumbs remaining on the outside of the chicken breast. Alternatively, for those who enjoy spicy food, consider adding red pepper flakes into the tomato sauce or mixing in a few jalapeños.

This recipe also allows you to experiment with different types of cheese; you might try using mozzarella and provolone combinations which provide a more robust flavor. Or, for a non-dairy option, substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a similar texture but a slightly different taste.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Parmesan is not just about deliciousness; it’s also about bringing people together. Whether you're hosting family or friends, this dish makes an excellent centerpiece of your meal. It's simple yet elegant, making it perfect for casual dinners and special occasions alike.

With its rich flavors and easy preparation, Chicken Parmesan remains a beloved classic in the culinary world. Its ability to satisfy both taste buds and souls makes it one recipe worth mastering and enjoying frequently.

Conclusion

If you're looking for ways to add more variety to your weekly menu, consider incorporating this versatile dish into your routine. Chicken Parmesan is a satisfying meal that everyone can appreciate, regardless of dietary preferences or cooking experience. Try it today and see how much joy it brings to your table!