Chicken Parmigiana Recipe: A Classic Italian-American Dish

 

Chicken Parmigiana Recipe: A Classic Italian-American Dish

Chicken Parmigiana, or Chicken Parmesan, is a beloved dish combining crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!

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Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Assembly:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.

   • Season both sides with salt and black pepper.

2. Bread the Chicken:

   • Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.

   • Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to adhere.

3. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

4. Make the Sauce:

   • In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.

   • Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.

   • Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Assemble and Bake:

   • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange the cooked chicken breasts over the sauce.

   • Spoon additional marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot with pasta, salad, or garlic bread.

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Tips for the Best Chicken Parmigiana:

• For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs or a mix of panko and regular breadcrumbs.

• Pound the chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking.

• Don’t skip the sugar in the sauce; it balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Classic Flavor: Combines crispy chicken with rich marinara and melty cheese.

• Customizable: Use your favorite cheese blend or add extra spices to the breading.

• Family-Friendly: A dish everyone at the table will love.