Chicken Parmesan

Introduction

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish featuring breaded, golden-brown chicken breasts topped with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Served over pasta or with a side salad, it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that kids and adults love alike.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Topping

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

Optional for Serving

• Cooked spaghetti or other pasta
• Garlic bread or side salad

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Equipment Needed

• Skillet or frying pan
• Three shallow bowls or plates (for dredging)
• Tongs or fork
• Baking dish
• Oven
• Measuring cups and spoons

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Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap.
2. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) to ensure even cooking.
3. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.

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Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

1. Place flour in the first shallow bowl.
2. In the second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
3. In the third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.

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Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Dip into the egg mixture, coating completely.
3. Press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring the chicken is fully coated.

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Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Fry chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

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Step 5: Assemble for Baking

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking dish, spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom.
3. Place fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
4. Spoon remaining marinara sauce over each chicken breast.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

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Step 6: Bake

1. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end to brown the cheese slightly.

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Step 7: Serve

• Serve hot over cooked spaghetti, pasta, or with a side of garlic bread.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan

• Even thickness: Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
• Crispy coating: Frying first gives a golden, crunchy crust that holds up under the sauce.
• Cheese choice: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded.
• Make-ahead: You can bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate before frying.
• Sauce: Use a flavorful marinara for best results; homemade or high-quality store-bought works.