classic chicken parmigiana recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
classic chicken parmigiana recipe
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The Best classic chicken parmigiana recipe

I’ve been making chicken parmigiana for years, and it’s still a family favorite. This classic Italian-American dish is a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share my recipe with you. The story of chicken parmigiana begins in Italy, where it’s known as ‘chicken cacciatora.’

However, the version we know and love today originated in the United States, where Italian immigrants adapted the recipe to suit local tastes. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is always a hit with them. They can’t get enough of the crispy breading and melted mozzarella cheese on top of juicy chicken.

As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe is easy to make ahead of time and can be reheated for a quick dinner or lunch. Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to other fried chicken recipes. I like to serve it with a side of pasta or garlic bread for a satisfying meal.

The key to making great chicken parmigiana lies in achieving the perfect breading – not too thick, not too thin – and cooking the chicken just until it’s done. This requires some finesse, but trust me when I say it’s worth the effort. My family loves when I make this recipe for special occasions, like holidays or birthdays.

It’s also a great way to use up leftover ingredients and reduce food waste.

Classic Chicken Parmigiana

Classic Chicken Parmigiana

4.7 from 1028 votes

A comforting classic Italian-American dish featuring breaded chicken cutlets topped with tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 eggs
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup vegetable oil for frying

For the Sauce

1 cup tomato sauce
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For Topping

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 450°F.
2Line the baking sheet with parchment paper.
3Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap.
4Use a meat mallet to pound until evenly thin about 1/2-inch thick.
5Season both sides with salt and pepper.
6Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls.
7In the first bowl, place flour.
8In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
9In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and 1 cup grated parmesan cheese.
10Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
11Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
12Finally, coat the chicken in the panko-parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
13Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
14Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
15Transfer the fried chicken to the prepared baking sheet.
16In a separate bowl, mix tomato sauce, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
17Spread the sauce evenly over each chicken breast.
18Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce on each chicken breast.
19Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
20If the top of the chicken begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
21Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
22Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven
Frying pan

📊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.

Watch Video Of How Classic Chicken Parmigiana Works

This classic recipe never fails to impress my family and friends alike. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or want to impress guests at your next gathering, chicken parmigiana is an excellent choice.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can adjust the level of breading to suit your taste preferences and add your favorite herbs or spices for added flavor. Additionally, leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or on the stovetop for a quick lunch or dinner.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Parmigiana

1. What is the difference between chicken parmesan and chicken parmigiana?

While both names refer to the same dish, ‘chicken parmesan’ is often used in American restaurants and ‘chicken parmigiana’ is more commonly used in Italian cuisine.

2. Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with various cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, or a combination of both. However, keep in mind that mozzarella provides a creamier texture and parmesan adds a salty flavor.

3. How do I prevent the breading from falling off during cooking?

Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with breadcrumbs and press them gently onto the meat to ensure they stick.

4. Can I bake instead of fry the chicken?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative that still yields delicious results. Simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

5. What sides go well with chicken parmigiana?

Pasta dishes like spaghetti or fettuccine Alfredo complement this dish nicely. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a lighter option.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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