good chicken parm recipe

The Best good chicken parm recipe

I’ve been making chicken parmesan for years, and it’s still a family favorite. This classic Italian-American dish is a staple in many households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, delicious, and can be customized to suit any taste. I love how the crispy breading on the chicken complements the tangy tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. My kids devour it in seconds, and I’m happy to oblige because it’s a great way to get them to eat something healthy and satisfying.

Plus, it’s a cinch to make in large quantities, making it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. The story behind chicken parmesan is a fascinating one. It originated in Italy as a way to use up leftover breaded and fried veal cutlets. The name ‘parmesan’ comes from the Parmesan cheese that’s typically used in the recipe.

Over time, the dish evolved to include chicken breasts as a more accessible alternative. One of the secrets to making great chicken parmesan lies in the breading process. A light coating of flour helps the breadcrumbs adhere evenly, while a gentle dredging in beaten eggs ensures that the cheese doesn’t get stuck. I like to use panko breadcrumbs for their crispy texture and mild flavor.

Another key element is using high-quality ingredients. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds depth and richness, while a good-quality tomato sauce provides acidity and flavor. Don’t be tempted to skip these details – they make all the difference in the final product. Chicken parmesan is more than just a tasty meal; it’s also an excellent way to teach kids about cooking techniques like breading and frying.

My kids love helping me prep the ingredients and assemble the dish. This recipe has become a staple in our household, not just because of its delicious taste but also because of its versatility. We enjoy it as is, but also like to experiment with different variations – adding some chopped veggies or using different types of cheese. In terms of health benefits, this recipe checks several boxes.

Using leaner chicken breasts reduces saturated fat content, while choosing whole-wheat breadcrumbs boosts fiber intake.

Chicken Parmesan

4.8 from 1473 votes

This chicken parmesan recipe delivers a crispy, flavorful chicken cutlet topped with melted cheese and tangy tomato sauce. It is a hearty meal that pairs beautifully with pasta or a side salad.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Breading

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
2 eggs
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 cup grated parmesan cheese

For the Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup vegetable oil

For the Sauce

1 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3In another bowl, beat the eggs.
4In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
5Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
6Season both sides with salt and pepper.
7Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
8Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
9Coat the chicken in the panko-parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
10In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
11Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
12Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet.
13In a small bowl, mix tomato sauce, oregano, basil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
14Spread the sauce evenly over each chicken breast.
15Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
16Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through.
17The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
18Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowls
Baking sheet
Oven
Skillet
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. For extra flavor, serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Parmesan Works

This recipe never fails to impress my family and friends alike – it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

One of my favorite aspects is how easy it is to reheat leftovers; simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350°F until golden brown and crispy.

When serving, consider adding some extra basil leaves or parsley sprigs for added color and freshness.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Parmesan

Q: What type of breadcrumbs should I use?

A: Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for their crispy texture and mild flavor.

Q: Can I substitute other types of cheese?

A: While traditional Parmesan is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for different flavor profiles.

Q: How do I prevent the breading from getting soggy?

A: Make sure your egg wash is well-beaten before dredging your chicken pieces.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the breaded chicken up to 24 hours in advance by storing it on a wire rack lined with parchment paper.

Q: What if my chicken breasts are too thick?

A: Simply pound them down slightly with a meat mallet or rolling pin before breading.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: You can easily swap out the chicken for portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices for a meatless version.

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