Chicken parmigiana

chicken_parmigiana

Chicken Parmigiana, also known as chicken parmesan, is a classic Italian dish that originated in the southern region of Italy. It is a flavorful and hearty meal that is perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. This recipe is made with tender chicken breasts, coated in a crispy and golden breadcrumb crust, and topped with a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The dish is then baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a delicious and comforting meal.

To make this classic Italian Chicken Parmigiana, you will need a few key ingredients. The first is, of course, chicken breasts. It is important to use high-quality chicken breasts that are fresh, boneless, and skinless. You will also need breadcrumbs, which can either be store-bought or homemade. To make homemade breadcrumbs, simply toast some bread and then pulse it in a food processor until it reaches the desired consistency.

In addition to breadcrumbs, you will need eggs to create an egg wash that will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken. You will also need tomato sauce, which is the base for the delicious and flavorful sauce that tops the chicken. Finally, you will need mozzarella cheese, which is essential for creating that ooey-gooey melted cheese topping.

To begin the recipe, start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Then, dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash and coat it in the breadcrumbs. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated, pressing the breadcrumbs into the chicken to create a crispy crust.

Next, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and top each breast with a generous spoonful of tomato sauce and a generous amount of grated mozzarella cheese.

Bake the chicken in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can broil the chicken for the last few minutes if you want the cheese to be extra gooey and golden brown. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Italian Chicken Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish that is loved by everyone. It is a hearty and flavorful meal that is perfect for serving to family and friends. This recipe is easy to follow and can be made on any day of the week. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. With its crispy breadcrumb coating, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, Italian Chicken Parmigiana is a classic dish that will always remain a favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 jar (24 oz) of marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. Start by preparing the chicken breasts - lightly pound them with a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet to flatten them to an even thickness.
  3. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour with salt and pepper.
  4. In another shallow bowl, whisk eggs with milk.
  5. In a third shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
  6. Dip each chicken breast into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the egg mixture, coating well. Finally, dip into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the mixture onto the chicken until it’s completely coated. Set the chicken breasts aside on a plate.
  7. In a large non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Work in batches if necessary.
  8. Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish, and spoon marinara sauce evenly over each chicken breast.
  9. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce, then bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Italian chicken parmigiana!