Chicken Parm
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Chicken Parm, a beloved dish that brings together tender chicken breast, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, sure to impress everyone at the table. With its crispy coating and rich flavors, Chicken Parm is a comfort food staple that’s easy to make at home.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
– Olive oil for frying
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 piece of Chicken Parm) contains 450 calories, 25g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. This nutritional breakdown is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the chicken breasts by pounding them to an even thickness.
3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
5. Dip each chicken breast in flour, then in egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
7. Fry the chicken breasts until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
8. Place the fried chicken in a baking dish.
9. Top each piece with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
10. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier option. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version. Low-fat cheese can also be used for a lighter dish.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken Parm pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. A glass of red wine complements the dish perfectly, enhancing its rich flavors.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the oven for best results. Chicken Parm can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze without the sauce and cheese.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip the pounding step; it ensures even cooking.
– Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying.
– Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture.
– Make sure the oil is hot before frying to prevent sogginess.
– Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy inside.
Helpful Tips
– Let the chicken rest after frying for a crispier texture.
– Use homemade marinara sauce for a fresher flavor.
– Garnish with fresh basil for added aroma.
– Serve hot for the best cheese pull effect.
FAQs
What can I serve with Chicken Parm?
Chicken Parm is versatile and can be served with pasta, salads, or crusty bread. Consider pairing it with garlic bread or a simple arugula salad for a balanced meal.
Can I make Chicken Parm ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and assemble it before baking. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for a quick meal.
Is Chicken Parm gluten-free?
Traditional Chicken Parm is not gluten-free due to breadcrumbs. However, you can easily use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a suitable alternative.
How do I prevent soggy Chicken Parm?
Ensure the chicken is well-coated and fried until crispy. Baking should be done at a high temperature to avoid sogginess from the sauce.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to experiment with provolone or fontina for different flavors.
Conclusion
Chicken Parm is a comforting dish that brings joy to any meal. Its combination of crispy chicken, rich sauce, and melted cheese makes it a favorite for many. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
Chicken Parm
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the chicken breasts by pounding them to an even thickness.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
- Dip each chicken breast in flour, then in egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken breasts until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Place the fried chicken in a baking dish.
- Top each piece with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
