Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that is also easy and quick to make? Look no further than our fantastic recipe for Chicken Parmigiana! This classic Italian dish features tender chicken cutlets coated in crispy breadcrumbs, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into how to create this Chicken Parmigiana masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Chicken Parmigiana
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup of breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 2 cups of marinara sauce
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. Place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
3. Set up three shallow bowls or dishes. Place the flour in the first bowl, whisk the eggs in the second bowl, and combine the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in the third bowl.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
5. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the breaded chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage since they will finish cooking in the oven.
6. Place the browned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Top each piece with a generous spoonful of marinara sauce, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each piece.
7. Bake the Chicken Parmigiana in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Chicken Parmigiana rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a pop of color and additional freshness.
Enjoy this homemade Chicken Parmigiana with a side of spaghetti, a crisp green salad, or garlic bread for a complete and comforting meal. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a hearty and delicious meal. We hope this easy and quick recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen rotation.