Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan, or Chicken Parmigiana, is a popular Italian-American dish that features breaded and fried chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Here’s a classic recipe for Chicken Parmesan:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Cutlets:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Olive oil for frying

For Assembly:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Cutlets:

a. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

b. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. Season with salt and black pepper.

c. Set up a breading station: Place flour in one shallow dish, whisk together eggs and water in another dish, and combine breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan in a third dish.

d. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, dip into the egg mixture, and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs.

2. Fry the Chicken Cutlets:

a. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

b. Fry the breaded chicken cutlets for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

c. Place the cooked cutlets on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

3. Assemble and Bake:

a. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.

b. Place the fried chicken cutlets on top of the sauce.

c. Spoon more marinara sauce over each cutlet.

d. Sprinkle mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken.

4. Bake:

a. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Garnish and Serve:

a. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

b. Serve the Chicken Parmesan over cooked pasta or with a side of crusty bread.

Chicken Parmesan is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the crispy chicken, gooey melted cheese, and rich marinara sauce!