Chicken Parmigiana, also known as Chicken Parmesan, is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender, breaded chicken cutlets with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This hearty and comforting meal is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a delightful combination of crispy chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy cheese. The chicken is first coated in breadcrumbs and fried to a golden brown, then topped with marinara sauce and a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese before being baked to perfection. Served over a bed of pasta or with a side of garlic bread, Chicken Parmigiana is a beloved dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Cooked pasta, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to adhere.
- Fry the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Assemble the Chicken Parmigiana:
- In a baking dish, spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining grated Parmesan.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve:
- Garnish the Chicken Parmigiana with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot over cooked pasta or with a side of garlic bread.
Chicken Parmigiana is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together the best of crispy chicken, tangy marinara, and melted cheese. It’s a timeless recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
