Chicken Parm
Indulge in the classic flavors of Chicken Parm, a beloved Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Whether served with pasta or a fresh salad, Chicken Parm is sure to impress and satisfy. Get ready to savor every bite of this culinary favorite!
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
– Olive oil for frying
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 piece of chicken parm):
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 2g
This is for one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
3. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
5. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in eggs, and coat in breadcrumb mixture.
6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
7. Fry the breaded chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
8. Place the fried chicken in a baking dish.
9. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece.
10. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the chicken with eggplant for a vegetarian version. Additionally, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for a gluten-free option. Use any marinara sauce or even homemade for a fresher taste.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken Parm pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a crisp salad. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Chicken Parm in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Freezing is possible; wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip pounding the chicken for even cooking.
– Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying.
– Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Don’t undercook the chicken; ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
– Allow the dish to rest before serving for better flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different cheeses for topping.
– Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
– Fresh herbs can enhance flavor; add them to the sauce.
– Prepare extra marinara for serving on the side.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Parm ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then assemble and bake it when ready to serve. This makes it a great meal for entertaining.
What can I serve with Chicken Parm?
Chicken Parm pairs well with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a lighter meal.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Is Chicken Parm gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Conclusion
Chicken Parm is a timeless dish that combines simple ingredients to create a comforting meal. With its crispy coating, savory sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Try this recipe and enjoy a taste of Italy at home!
Chicken Parm
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in eggs, and coat in breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the breaded chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Place the fried chicken in a baking dish.
- Spoon marinara sauce over each piece.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
