Imagine sitting down to a dinner that not only fills the room with mouthwatering aromas but also brings a piece of Italian cuisine right to your table. That’s what you get with this delightful Chicken Parmesan recipe.
t’s a dish that combines the crispy texture of breaded chicken with the rich flavors of tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and melted cheeses. Not only is it a feast for the taste buds, but it’s also surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs, or more as needed
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, or more if needed
- ½ cup olive oil for frying, or as needed
- ½ cup prepared tomato sauce
- ¼ cup fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ cup grated provolone cheese
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
Directions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to a hot 450 degrees F (230 degrees C) to ensure a crispy finish.
- Lay your chicken breasts between two layers of sturdy plastic, such as resealable freezer bags, on a flat surface. Use the smooth side of a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper. Then, lightly dust both sides with flour using a sifter or strainer for an even coat.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each flour-coated chicken breast into the eggs, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure both sides are well-coated. Let the coated chicken rest for about 10 to 15 minutes; this helps the coating stick during cooking.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry each chicken piece until golden, about 2 minutes per side. Remember, they’ll finish cooking in the oven, so you’re just looking for that golden crust here.
- Place the fried chicken in a baking dish. Spoon 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce over each piece, then layer on the mozzarella, fresh basil, and provolone cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of the remaining Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Bake in your preheated oven until the cheese turns golden and bubbly, and the chicken is thoroughly cooked, about 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when an instant-read thermometer reads at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) at the thickest part of the chicken.
Chef’s Notes:
Choosing a high-quality tomato sauce can elevate this dish from good to great. Feel free to swap out the basil for pesto or your favorite Italian herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
With its perfect blend of textures and flavors, Chicken Parmesan is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Serve it up with a side of pasta, a fresh salad, or your favorite vegetable for a complete, satisfying dinner. Enjoy the process, and buon appetito!