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chicken parmesan recipe

Authentic Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Jennifer AI Chef
A comforting and crispy dish with golden-breaded chicken cutlets, gooey mozzarella cheese, tangy marinara sauce, and a sprinkling of Parmesan.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Frying pan or skillet for frying
  • Baking dish or baking sheet
  • 3 shallow dishes for breading
  • Large saucepan for marinara sauce

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Cutlets

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts flattened into cutlets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 2 cup breadcrumbs Panko or regular
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying or baking

For the Marinara Sauce

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes 28-ounce
  • 1 can tomato paste 6-ounce
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken Parmesan

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

Prepare Chicken Cutlets

  • Flatten chicken breasts to an even thickness.
  • Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
  • Coat each chicken breast in flour, dip into the eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
  • Fry in hot oil until golden and crispy, or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Make Marinara Sauce

  • Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
  • Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Let simmer for 20-30 minutes until thickened.

Assemble Chicken Parmesan

  • In a baking dish, place the fried chicken cutlets.
  • Spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  • Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, adding mozzarella in the last 5 minutes.
  • Broil for 1-2 minutes to crisp the cheese if desired.

Serve

  • Serve with pasta, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

Tips & Variations:

  • Enhance the Flavors:
    • Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices for 30 minutes before breading and cooking for extra depth of flavor.
    • Use freshly grated, high-quality Parmesan cheese for a richer, more authentic taste.
    • Experiment with different breadcrumbs, like panko or homemade seasoned ones, for the best crunch.
  • Achieve the Perfect Texture:
    • Flatten the chicken breasts evenly to ensure consistent cooking and prevent uneven texture.
    • For the crispiest breading, fry the chicken until golden and crispy, then bake to maintain a crunchy exterior.
    • Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
  • Elevate the Presentation:
    • Layer the chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese neatly to create an appealing look.
    • Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or extra Parmesan to add color and flavor.
    • Serve on top of pasta or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete and visually stunning meal.
  • Variations and Twists on the Classic Recipe:
    • Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken for eggplant for a vegetarian option, or try turkey for a leaner dish. A breaded and baked portobello mushroom is another great meatless choice.
    • Cheese and Sauce Variations: Use burrata for a creamy texture or mix provolone and Parmesan. You can also experiment with different sauces like pesto or béchamel for a unique twist.
    • Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your chicken parmesan a spicy boost.
  • Kid-Friendly Modifications:
    • For kids, try using crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture. Keep the sauce simple but flavorful, with options like marinara or a creamy cheese sauce.

Storage & Reheating:

  • Storage Tips:
    • Allow the chicken parmesan to cool before transferring it to an airtight container or plastic bag to preserve its flavor.
    • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for 2-3 months.
  • Reheating Instructions:
    • To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken parmesan in a baking dish and cover it with foil to maintain the crispiness of the breading.
    • Bake for 15-20 minutes or until hot and the cheese is bubbly. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy and the cheese lose its meltiness.
  • Freezing Tips:
    • To freeze, assemble the dish (without baking), wrap it tightly, and store it in the freezer. When ready to serve, bake it as you would fresh chicken parmesan.
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