Chicken Parmesan is a delicious dish that people adore! It features *crispy, breaded chicken* topped with *rich marinara sauce* and *melted cheese*. Want to make it? First, coat chicken in flour, dip it in egg, and cover it with panko breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch. Fry it until golden, then finish with marinara and cheese in the oven. It's quick to prepare, taking under 30 minutes, and pairs well with pasta or a fresh salad. Imagine biting into that cheesy goodness! ��️ Curious about more tips or variations? There's plenty more to explore!

History

Originating from Southern Italy, particularly in Campania, Chicken Parmesan—originally called Chicken Parmigiana—has a rich history that intertwines with Italian culinary traditions.

The dish's comforting elements are reminiscent of the hearty grilling techniques seen in many traditional Italian recipes, much like the versatile cooking methods offered by Traeger grills which enhance outdoor culinary experiences.

Can you imagine how this iconic dish made its way to the United States? In the early 20th century, Italian immigrants brought their delicious recipes with them, and Chicken Parmesan quickly became a beloved part of Italian-American cuisine.

This dish is all about comfort food. You'll find tender, breaded chicken cutlets topped with zesty marinara sauce and *melted cheese*.

It often shines on restaurant menus, served over pasta or nestled in a sandwich. Isn't it fascinating how a dish can evolve? While Chicken Parmigiana started with just a few ingredients, it now features different cheeses and sauces to suit American tastes.

As you explore the history of Chicken Parmesan, think about how it reflects the blending of cultures. Each bite tells a story of culinary traditions coming together.

Recipe

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian dish that combines crispy breaded chicken with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. It's a comforting meal that brings together a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among families and food lovers alike.

The dish isn't only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a homemade Italian feast even on the busiest of weeknights. For ideal cooking results, consider using a high-quality oven like the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer that offers versatile cooking functions.

To make Chicken Parmesan, you'll first need to set up your breading station, which consists of seasoned flour, an egg wash, and breadcrumbs. Using panko breadcrumbs will give your chicken an extra crispy texture that elevates the dish.

Once the chicken is breaded and baked, it's topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then placed back in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve it over pasta or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

To prepare the Chicken Parmesan, first preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Begin by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make them thinner. Set up a breading station by placing the flour in one shallow dish, whisking the eggs in a second dish, and combining panko breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a third dish.

Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip it in the egg wash, and then coat it with the panko mixture. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the breaded chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Transfer the chicken to a baking dish, top each piece with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, and bake in the oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

When making Chicken Parmesan, consider using a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before breading, as this helps guarantee even cooking. Additionally, for a healthier twist, you can bake the breaded chicken instead of frying it; simply place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking oil before baking.

Final Thoughts

When you whip up Chicken Parmesan, you're not just making a meal; you're creating a comforting experience that brings joy to the table. This easy Chicken Parmesan recipe is perfect for busy nights and is sure to please everyone.

With breaded chicken breasts, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheese, it's a family favorite for a reason. The versatility of cooking methods offered by tools like GreenPan Dutch Ovens can enhance your meal prep experience, allowing you to explore various culinary techniques.

Here's why you'll love it:

1. Quick Prep: You can whip this up in under 30 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
2. Versatile Serving: Enjoy it over pasta, as a sandwich, or with roasted veggies—your choice!
3. Homemade Goodness: Using homemade marinara sauce enhances the flavor, making it even more special.
4. Crispy Delight: The breaded chicken combined with melted cheese creates a satisfying crunch that you won't forget.