Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Meat mallet
- 3 shallow bowls
- Baking sheet
- Oven-safe skillet or baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them with a meat mallet until they are an even thickness.
3. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it in the egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to make sure they stick.
5. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet or baking dish over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
6. Spoon the marinara sauce over the chicken breasts, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Transfer the skillet or baking dish to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 540
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 182mg
Sodium: 1330mg
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 42g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs or even pork chops.
- If you don't have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
- You can use any type of cheese you like instead of mozzarella.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the marinara sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use a different type of sauce, such as Alfredo or pesto, instead of marinara.
- Top the chicken with sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers before adding the cheese.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness so they cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is cooked through - it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the chicken to a baking dish before adding the sauce and cheese.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the chicken on a bed of pasta or with a side of roasted vegetables.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Pairings:
This dish pairs well with a side salad and garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Side salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chicken is browning too quickly, turn down the heat or move it to a cooler part of the skillet.
- If the cheese is browning too quickly, cover the skillet or baking dish with foil.
Food safety advice:
- Always wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with raw chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is cooked through.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Food history:
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the Northeastern United States in the early 20th century.
Flavor profiles:
This dish is savory, cheesy, and tomato-y, with a crispy breadcrumb coating and tender chicken.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot with a side of pasta or roasted vegetables.
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Region: Italian