Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Meat mallet
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them with a meat mallet until they are even in thickness.
3. Set up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In the third bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
6. Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each breast. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
7. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 540
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 53g
Sodium: 1450mg
Sugar: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs or even eggplant for a vegetarian option.
- If you don't have seasoned breadcrumbs, you can use plain breadcrumbs and add your own seasonings.
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or provolone.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the marinara sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Top the chicken with fresh tomatoes and basil instead of marinara sauce for a lighter option.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to pound the chicken breasts evenly so they cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If the breadcrumbs are not sticking to the chicken, try pressing them on harder or using a bit of egg wash to help them adhere.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the chicken on a bed of pasta or with a side of garlic bread.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Pairings:
Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Caesar salad
- Garlic mashed potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chicken is not cooked through, return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
- If the breadcrumbs are burning before the chicken is cooked, cover the chicken with foil and continue baking.
Food safety advice:
- Always wash your hands and utensils before and after handling raw chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
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 tangy from the marinara sauce.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot with a side of pasta or garlic bread.
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Region: Italian