Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes  

   Prep Time: 30 minutes

Chicken Parmesan Ingredients

Chicken Parmesan Instructions

  1. Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Place each cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until about 1/2-inch thick.
  2. Season both sides of the chicken cutlets with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  3. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: place the flour in the first bowl; beat the eggs in the second bowl; in the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmigiano-Reggiano, provolone, garlic powder, dried oregano, remaining salt, and remaining black pepper.
  4. Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Press into the breadcrumb-cheese mixture, coating both sides thoroughly and pressing to adhere.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry the breaded chicken cutlets in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  6. In a saucepan over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add San Marzano tomato purée and bring to a simmer. Stir in butter and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in torn basil leaves.
  7. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the fried chicken cutlets in a single layer over the sauce. Spoon more sauce over each cutlet, then top each with slices of fresh mozzarella.
  8. Bake the assembled dish for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the chicken is heated through.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with aged balsamic vinegar and garnish with additional torn basil leaves before serving.

Estimated Calories: 400, Servings: 4

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About Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that has become a favorite in kitchens everywhere. This recipe is known for its crispy breaded chicken, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, making it the perfect comfort food. If you’re searching for the best and most authentic way to enjoy this meal, look no further—this homemade Chicken Parmesan recipe is both easy and quick, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Learning how to make Chicken Parmesan at home is a rewarding experience. The key to a delicious and tasty result lies in using the best ingredients: fresh chicken breasts, high-quality mozzarella, and a flavorful marinara sauce. With a few helpful tips, such as double-breading the chicken and baking it just until the cheese is bubbly, you can achieve the perfect crispy texture and mouthwatering flavor. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also delivers that authentic Italian-American taste everyone loves.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this easy Chicken Parmesan recipe is sure to impress. It’s a simple yet delicious meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Follow these tips for the best results: use homemade sauce if possible, don’t overcook the chicken, and serve with your favorite pasta. With this guide on how to make the perfect Chicken Parmesan, you’ll have a tasty, crowd-pleasing dish every time!

Healthy Chicken Parmesan Tips

For those seeking a health-conscious twist on the classic Italian-American Chicken Parmesan recipe, there are several easy and quick modifications that maintain the delicious, authentic flavor while boosting nutritional value. Swapping out traditional frying for baking or air-frying the chicken cutlets is a simple way to reduce excess oil and calories, making the dish lighter without sacrificing taste. Using whole wheat breadcrumbs or even almond flour as a coating adds fiber and healthy fats, ensuring the homemade meal remains both tasty and satisfying. Opting for part-skim mozzarella and a modest amount of Parmesan cheese keeps the recipe lower in saturated fat, while still delivering that perfect, gooey cheese pull everyone loves. These tips help transform the best Chicken Parmesan into a healthier, yet still authentic, Italian-American favorite.
Another health-forward approach to this best-loved recipe is to load up on vegetables and use high-quality, fresh ingredients. Incorporating a homemade tomato sauce with no added sugar or preservatives not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the health benefits of the dish. Serving the Chicken Parmesan over a bed of steamed spinach or zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta is a quick and easy way to cut carbs and increase nutrient intake. For those wondering how to make the perfect, healthy version, these simple adjustments ensure the meal remains delicious, authentic, and satisfying. With these health-focused tips, anyone can enjoy a tasty, homemade Chicken Parmesan that fits seamlessly into a balanced lifestyle.

Chicken Parmesan Story

The memory of that evening remains vivid for her, a time when laughter echoed through the kitchen and the air was thick with anticipation. It was a family tradition to gather on Sundays, and she always looked forward to it, knowing that her grandmother would be preparing the best meal of the week. The process was quick but never rushed, and the sense of togetherness made everything taste even better. Even now, she recalls the way her grandmother would hum softly, moving with practiced ease, and how the entire family would crowd around the table, eager for the first bite.
There was something undeniably special about those gatherings, a feeling that everything was right in the world. The aroma that filled the house was both comforting and exciting, promising something delicious and satisfying. She remembers her grandfather declaring that this was a recipe worth passing down, one that brought out the best in everyone. The meal was always served with a side of stories and laughter, making it clear that good food and good company were inseparable. The experience was not just about eating but about creating memories that would last a lifetime.
Years later, she still finds herself chasing that sense of warmth and belonging whenever she tries to recreate the dish. The steps are easy to follow, and the results are always great, but it is the emotional connection that makes it truly special. She appreciates how healthy and nourishing the tradition feels, both for the body and the soul. Even on busy days, the fast preparation brings her back to those moments, reminding her that some of the most meaningful experiences can come from something as simple as sharing a meal.

Chicken Parmesan Quick Mistake Fixes

A common issue that can arise with this dish is a soggy texture, particularly in the breaded coating. This often happens when the sauce is added too early or in excess, causing the crust to lose its crispness. For the best results, it is important to ensure that the breading remains intact and crunchy, as this provides a good contrast to the tender chicken and melted cheese. A quick broil at the end can help restore some of the lost texture, making the meal more delicious and appealing. Maintaining a healthy balance between sauce and breading is key to achieving a great final product.
Another frequent challenge is achieving a balanced flavor profile, especially when making last minute changes. If the dish tastes bland, a fast solution is to sprinkle a bit of fresh basil or a touch of grated Parmesan just before serving. This easy adjustment can elevate the overall taste, making the meal more vibrant and satisfying. A good recipe allows for these quick tweaks, ensuring that the final dish is both delicious and memorable, even if initial seasoning was lacking.
Appearance plays a significant role in the enjoyment of this classic meal. A bad appearance, such as uneven cheese coverage or burnt edges, can detract from the overall experience. Taking a moment to arrange the cheese evenly and garnish with a sprinkle of herbs can make the dish look as good as it tastes. A great presentation not only makes the meal more appetizing but also reflects the care put into preparing a healthy and delicious dinner.

Storage Tips

When considering storage, it is best to place Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container to maintain its delicious texture and flavor. For optimal results, the dish should be cooled to room temperature before being stored in the refrigerator. This easy step helps prevent condensation, which can make the breading soggy and compromise the overall quality of the recipe.Shelf life is a good topic to address, as Chicken Parmesan can typically be kept in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. For those seeking a fast and healthy meal prep option, freezing is also a great choice, allowing the dish to last for up to two months. Labeling containers with the date ensures that the recipe is consumed while it is still at its best.Reheating is an important consideration for flavor retention and food safety. The best method is to use an oven, which helps keep the breading crisp and the cheese melty, making the leftovers taste almost as delicious as when freshly made. For a quick and easy option, a microwave can be used, but it may result in a softer texture. Ensuring the dish is heated thoroughly is essential for a healthy and safe meal.