Chicken Parmesan: A Classic Comfort Food with a Recipe to Try

Chicken Parmesan, or "Chicken Parm," is a quintessential Italian-American dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers around the world. Known for its crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and rich, melted cheese, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Whether served over a bed of pasta, alongside a crisp salad, or on its own, Chicken Parmesan is a versatile and crowd-pleasing favorite.

In this article, we’ll explore the origins of this beloved dish and provide a detailed recipe so you can recreate its magic at home.

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The Origins of Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan draws inspiration from Italy's "Melanzane alla Parmigiana" (Eggplant Parmesan), a dish that layers breaded and fried eggplant slices with tomato sauce and cheese. When Italian immigrants arrived in America, they adapted the recipe by replacing eggplant with chicken, a more readily available ingredient. Over time, this adaptation became a hallmark of Italian-American cuisine.

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Recipe: How to Make Chicken Parmesan

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap. Pound gently with a meat mallet to ensure even thickness.
   • Season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper.

2. Set Up Breading Station:

   • In three shallow bowls, place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese in the third.
   • Coat each chicken breast in flour, dip it into the beaten eggs, and press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring full coverage.

3. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Fry each chicken breast for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking dish.

4. Assemble the Dish:

   • Spoon marinara sauce generously over each chicken breast.
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

5. Bake:

   • Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).

6. Serve and Garnish:

   • Remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
   • Serve hot with pasta, a side salad, or garlic bread.

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Tips for Success

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: High-quality marinara sauce and fresh mozzarella make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Customize the Breading: Add spices like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for extra depth of flavor.
• Serve with a Side: Traditional pairings include spaghetti, roasted vegetables, or a Caesar salad.

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Why Everyone Loves Chicken Parmesan

The magic of Chicken Parmesan lies in its ability to satisfy on every level. The crunch of the breaded chicken contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese and robust marinara sauce. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and approachable, making it a favorite for casual family dinners and special occasions alike.

Try this recipe at home, and let the aroma of freshly baked Chicken Parmesan fill your kitchen. With just a few steps, you’ll have a dish that’s as rewarding to prepare as it is to eat. Enjoy!