Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups Béchamel sauce (see recipe below)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Saucepan
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
5. In a third shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake the chicken breasts for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. While the chicken is baking, prepare the Béchamel sauce (see recipe below).
9. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and set the oven to broil.
10. In a large skillet, heat the Béchamel sauce over medium heat until warmed through.
11. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet with the sauce, spooning the sauce over the chicken to coat it.
12. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken and sauce.
13. Broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
14. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F (190°C)
- Broil temperature: High
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 643
- Total fat: 30g
- Saturated fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 223mg
- Sodium: 1304mg
- Total carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 54g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Chicken breasts can be substituted with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with provolone cheese or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the Béchamel sauce for a mushroom chicken Parmesan.
- Substitute the chicken with eggplant slices for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Use a different type of sauce, such as marinara or Alfredo, instead of Béchamel sauce.
Tips and Tricks:
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before dredging them in the flour mixture to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a crispier crust, spray the chicken breasts with cooking spray before baking them.
Storage Instructions:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat the chicken in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the chicken Parmesan on a bed of pasta or with a side of garlic bread.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the chicken is not browning evenly, rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking.
- If the cheese is not melting, broil the chicken for an additional minute or two.
Food Safety Advice:
- Wash your hands and all surfaces and utensils that come into contact with raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Food History:
- Chicken Parmesan is a popular Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the early 20th century.
Flavor Profiles:
- This dish is savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy, with a crispy breadcrumb crust and creamy Béchamel sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with a side of pasta or garlic bread for a comforting and satisfying meal.
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Region: Italian