Experience the comforting and rich flavors of Traditional Chicken Parmigiana. This classic Italian dish combines breaded chicken cutlets, homemade marinara sauce, and melted cheese to create a delightful and satisfying meal. Follow this recipe to bring the authentic taste of Italy into your kitchen.
Inspiring Quote
“Cooking is at once child’s play and adult joy. And cooking done with care is an act of love.” – Craig Claiborne
Recipe Description
Chicken Parmigiana, also known as Chicken Parmesan, is a beloved staple in Italian-American cuisine. This dish features breaded and fried chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. The origins of Chicken Parmigiana are rooted in the Italian dish “Melanzane alla Parmigiana,” which uses eggplant instead of chicken. Italian immigrants in the United States adapted the recipe to include chicken, creating a new classic. The combination of crispy breading, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese makes Chicken Parmigiana a favorite comfort food for many. Enjoy this detailed recipe to make a delicious and authentic Chicken Parmigiana at home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Procedure
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Bread the Chicken: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip in the eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the fried chicken breasts on top. Spoon more marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade Traditional Chicken Parmigiana, a classic Italian-American dish that combines crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Additional Notes
- For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded chicken cutlets instead of frying them.
- Serve with a side of spaghetti or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Beverage Pairings
Chicken Parmigiana pairs well with:
- Wine: A robust red wine such as Chianti or a fruity white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the rich flavors of the dish.
- Beer: A light lager or an amber ale pairs nicely with this dish.
- Non-alcoholic: A sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a chilled iced tea are great options.
