Experience the mouthwatering delight of Chicken Parmesan, a beloved classic in Italian-American cuisine. This satisfying dish features tender, breaded chicken cutlets smothered in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey, melted cheese. Chicken Parmesan offers a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that will please any palate, perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy night. Don’t miss out on this iconic dish that has earned a special place in the hearts of food lovers everywhere—try it today and savor every delicious bite!
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Mastering the Art of Chicken Parmesan Without the Sogginess
Chicken Parmesan stands out as one of the most beloved dishes in Italian-American restaurants, but making it at home is surprisingly straightforward and rewarding.
Many restaurant versions tend to smother the chicken in excessive sauce and cheese, resulting in a soggy mess. However, with my approach, you can create a deliciously crispy chicken Parmesan that avoids this pitfall.
The secret to achieving perfectly crisp chicken Parmesan lies in applying the sauce. Instead of placing sauce beneath the chicken cutlets, apply a light layer on top, allowing the breading to maintain its crunch. If you prefer more sauce, serve extra on the side. I also incorporate real Parmesan cheese in this recipe, often overlooked in typical renditions relying solely on mozzarella. I use a delightful combination of fresh mozzarella, zesty Provolone, and authentic Parmesan for a rich flavor profile.
Additionally, I enhance the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan to add another layer of flavor. After frying the breaded chicken until golden brown, transfer it to a baking dish, add some sauce, and top it off with cheese and herbs. Let’s dive into the details!
Chef Isla’s Essential Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan
Before we jump into the recipe, here’s a handy guide to help you make the ultimate baked chicken Parmesan:
- Pound the Chicken Evenly: Flatten the boneless chicken breasts to a uniform thickness of about half an inch for even cooking.
- Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Generously season the chicken with salt and pepper; there’s no need to salt the flour and breadcrumbs.
- Incorporate Parmesan into the Breadcrumbs: Use Panko breadcrumbs combined with finely grated Parmesan. This adds an extra crunch and depth of flavor when frying the chicken.
- Allow the Chicken to Rest: Let the breaded chicken sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking to help the coating adhere better.
- Moderate the Sauce: Avoid overwhelming the fried chicken with sauce and cheese. A lighter hand ensures the crispy coating remains intact.
- Preheat the Oven: Ensure your oven reaches a scorching 450°F (230°C) to ensure the cheese melts and browns without overcooking the chicken.
Ingredients
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or more, if needed)
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or more, if required)
- ½ cup olive oil for frying (or as needed)
- ½ cup prepared tomato sauce
- ¼ cup fresh mozzarella, diced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ cup grated Provolone cheese
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and gather all ingredients.
Step 2: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to a uniform thickness of ½ inch.
Step 3: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Sift flour over both sides of the chicken for an even coating.
Step 4: In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with ½ cup of Parmesan. Dip each flour-coated chicken breast into the eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere. Allow the coated chicken to rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 5: Heat half an inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry the chicken for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 6: Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce to each breast, followed by equal portions of mozzarella, basil, and Provolone cheese. Finish with the remaining Parmesan and drizzle with olive oil.
Step 7: Bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through (165°F or 74°C when checked with an instant-read thermometer).
Step 8:
Enjoy your perfectly crispy Chicken Parmesan!
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that combines comfort and flavor in every bite. This classic Italian-American dish features tender, breaded chicken cutlets topped with a luscious marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Whether indulging in a cozy dinner at home, impressing guests at a gathering, or grabbing a quick bite at your favorite restaurant, Chicken Parmesan is a satisfying choice. Its versatility means it can be enjoyed independently, alongside a side of pasta, or even as a hearty sandwich.
The rich history behind Chicken Parmesan adds to its appeal, showcasing a fusion of culinary traditions that have come together to create a beloved dish. If you haven’t had the chance to try it yet, now is the perfect time to dive in. Treat yourself to this iconic dish and discover why it has earned a special place in so many’s hearts (and stomachs). You won’t regret it!