Chicken Parmesan Recipe: A Classic Italian-American Delight
Chicken Parmesan, a beloved Italian-American classic, is a dish that's both comforting and impressive. This recipe will guide you through creating a juicy, flavorful chicken parmesan that will leave you wanting more. We'll focus on techniques to ensure a crispy crust and a perfectly cooked chicken breast, resulting in a dish worthy of your family's dinner table or a celebratory feast.
Ingredients You'll Need
This recipe provides enough for approximately four servings. Adjust quantities as needed for larger groups.
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For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil, for frying
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For the Sauce:
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce (or your favorite homemade recipe!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Topping:
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Your Culinary Masterpiece
Let's embark on the journey of making a truly exceptional Chicken Parmesan. Follow these steps closely for the best results:
Preparing the Chicken
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Pound the Chicken: Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking.
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Season and Bread: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Dredge each breast in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs.
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Fry the Chicken: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Making the Sauce
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Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet (after removing excess oil), sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer and cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling and Baking
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Layer and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour a thin layer of sauce into a baking dish. Place the fried chicken breasts in the dish, top with the remaining sauce, and generously sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Parmesan hot, straight from the oven. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as spaghetti, a fresh green salad, or garlic bread. Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan
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Don't overcrowd the pan: When frying the chicken, ensure there's enough space between each breast to allow for even browning. Fry in batches if necessary.
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Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your Chicken Parmesan is directly impacted by the quality of your ingredients. Opt for fresh herbs and good quality canned tomatoes.
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Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your personal preference. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
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Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and assemble the dish just before baking.
This detailed recipe ensures a delicious and impressive Chicken Parmesan. Remember to adjust seasonings and ingredients to fit your palate. Happy cooking!