Discover the ultimate Chicken Parmesan recipe with crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect comfort food in every bite!
Golden Crispy Delight: The Ultimate Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Introduction:
Chicken Parmesan, a timeless Italian-American classic, marries the comforting elements of crispy breaded chicken with savory marinara sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or elegant gatherings, this dish brings joy to any table. With its roots deeply embedded in authentic Italian cuisine, Chicken Parmesan offers a symphony of flavors and textures that promise to make each bite an unforgettable experience. Today, let’s embark on a culinary journey to create the ultimate Chicken Parmesan that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup breadcrumbs, preferably Italian seasoned
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner pieces, or pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Set up the Breading Station:
- Gather three shallow dishes. In the first, place the flour. In the second, whisk together the eggs and water until smooth. In the third, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes.
Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off the excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated.
- Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, covering both sides thoroughly. Press down gently to ensure the breading adheres well.
Fry the Chicken:
- Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Bake the Chicken with Sauce and Cheese:
- Place the fried chicken pieces in a single layer in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Top each chicken piece generously with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving.
Conclusion:
Your Golden Crispy Delight: The Ultimate Classic Chicken Parmesan is now ready to be enjoyed! This dish, with its combination of crispy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether paired with spaghetti, a fresh salad, or enjoyed on its own, this Chicken Parmesan brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Try this recipe for your next dinner, and watch as it becomes a beloved staple that’s requested time and time again. Bon appétit!