Chicken Parmesan Recipe: A Family Favorite

Introduction

There’s something special about a classic Chicken Parmesan that brings everyone together at the dinner table. It’s the kind of dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Every time I make this recipe, my family can’t help but gather around, eagerly awaiting the first bite. The tender chicken, crispy coating, and rich marinara sauce topped with gooey melted cheese create a harmonious blend of flavors that we all adore. Over the years, this Chicken Parmesan has become a staple in our household, especially on weekends when we want to indulge in a comforting meal.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of creating a delicious Chicken Parmesan from scratch, complete with a homemade marinara sauce. Not only is this recipe perfect for family dinners, but it also makes an impressive dish for entertaining guests. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step instructions to make this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 large sprigs basil
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Chicken:

• 1 c. panko bread crumbs
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 2 c. finely grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 3/4 c. all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 6 (1/4″-thick) boneless, skinless chicken cutlets (about 1 1/2 lb. total)
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 c. vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
• Chopped fresh basil, for serving

Instructions

Marinara Sauce:

Step 1: Cook the Aromatics

1. In a medium pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes.
3. Uncover and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, softened, and fragrant, about 5 minutes more.

Step 2: Simmer the Sauce

1. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and basil.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is slightly thickened and the flavors have melded, about 30 minutes.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Discard the basil sprigs.

Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Breading Stations

1. In a shallow bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
2. In another shallow bowl, pour the flour.
3. In a third shallow bowl, beat the eggs with 1 tablespoon of water.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken cutlets dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Dip each piece into the flour, shaking off the excess, then into the egg, and finally into the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 3: Prepare for Frying

1. In a small bowl, mix the shredded mozzarella with the remaining 1 cup of grated Parmesan.
2. Heat the broiler.
3. In a large, heavy pot over medium heat, heat the oil until a deep-fry or instant-read thermometer registers 350°F. If the oil smokes slightly, it’s okay.
4. Set a wire rack in a baking sheet to drain the fried chicken.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. Working one piece at a time, fry the chicken until one side is golden brown, about 1 minute.
2. Flip and continue to fry until golden brown on the other side and the frying sound becomes slightly louder, about 1 minute more.
3. Transfer the chicken to the prepared rack. Repeat with the remaining chicken.

Step 5: Broil the Chicken

1. Spoon some marinara sauce over each piece of fried chicken.
2. Sprinkle with the cheese mixture.
3. Broil, watching carefully, until the cheese is melted and has some brown spots, about 2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

1. Divide the Chicken Parmesan among plates.
2. Top with chopped fresh basil.
3. Serve with remaining marinara sauce alongside.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 450 kcal (approx.)
• Total Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Dietary Fiber: 2 g
• Sugars: 6 g
• Protein: 25 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes (includes marinara sauce time)
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the Chicken Parmesan over a bed of spaghetti or with a side of garlic bread.
• Garnish with extra chopped basil for freshness.
• Pair with a green salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a bright flavor to the marinara sauce. If you can, use fresh herbs instead of dried ones.
2. Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, consider pounding the chicken cutlets to an even thickness before breading.
3. Double the Marinara: Make extra marinara sauce to freeze for future use. It pairs well with other pasta dishes.
4. Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to try different cheeses like provolone or fontina for unique flavors.
5. Make it Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just assemble and bake before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with eggplant slices for a delicious Eggplant Parmesan.
• Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a bit of heat.
• Stuffed Chicken Parmesan: Stuff the chicken with spinach and ricotta before breading for a cheesy surprise.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of creamy risotto or garlic mashed potatoes.
• Pair with a crisp Caesar salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• Complement with a glass of Chianti or your favorite red wine for a complete Italian dining experience.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

• Yes, store-bought marinara sauce can save time. Just warm it before serving.

1. What can I substitute for panko bread crumbs?

• You can use regular bread crumbs, but panko gives a crispier texture.

1. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

• Yes, for a healthier version, you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.

1. Is there a gluten-free option?

• Use gluten-free bread crumbs and flour to make this dish gluten-free.

1. Can I prepare this in advance?

• Yes, you can make the marinara and bread the chicken a day ahead. Just assemble and cook when ready.

1. What if I can’t find boneless, skinless chicken cutlets?

• You can slice boneless chicken breasts into cutlets.

1. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

• The internal temperature should reach 165°F when fully cooked.

1. Can I use different types of cheese?

• Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses to suit your taste.

1. What sides go well with Chicken Parmesan?

• It pairs well with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple salad.

1. How can I make this dish less salty?

• Use low-sodium canned tomatoes and control the salt added to the marinara.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings family and friends together. With its golden, crispy chicken, luscious marinara sauce, and melted cheese, it’s no wonder this classic Italian dish has earned a place in our hearts and on our tables. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or for entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful flavors and warm memories it creates!

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