Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken:
    • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 tablespoon water
    • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
    • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
    • 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
  • For the Assembly:
    • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
    • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
    • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
    • Cooked pasta (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thinner pieces. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Set Up the Breading Station:
    • In three shallow dishes, set up your breading station:
      • In the first dish, place the flour.
      • In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and water.
      • In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes.
  3. Bread the Chicken:
    • Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off the excess.
    • Dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
    • Finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
  4. Fry the Chicken:
    • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
    • Once hot, add the breaded chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
  5. Assemble the Dish:
    • In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
    • Place the fried chicken on top of the sauce.
    • Spoon more marinara sauce over each piece of chicken and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot over cooked pasta, if desired.

Tips

  • Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing or lemon juice for a few hours before breading.
  • Sauce: You can make your own marinara sauce or use your favorite jarred version to save time.
  • Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses, like provolone or fontina, for a different flavor profile.
  • Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This Chicken Parmesan is sure to become a family favorite, offering a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!

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