Name: The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian style); 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this crispy chicken Parmesan recipe! With its crunchy coating, gooey cheese, and savory marinara sauce, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melty cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion.
Quick prep time: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have this dish on the table in no time.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch of this chicken Parmesan and enjoy leftovers for days to come.

Ingredient Notes:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provide a lean protein base for this dish.
Salt and pepper: Season the chicken to taste.
All-purpose flour: Helps the breading stick to the chicken.
Large eggs: Act as a binder for the breadcrumbs.
Breadcrumbs (preferably Italian style): Create a crispy coating for the chicken.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor.
Marinara sauce: Provides a classic tomato base for the dish.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken.
Olive oil: Used for frying the chicken.
Fresh basil or parsley: Optional garnishes for a pop of freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Dredge the chicken in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry the chicken until golden and crispy.
Top each chicken breast with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Helpful Tips:

For a healthier option, bake the breaded chicken instead of frying.
Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coating.
Substitute chicken with eggplant slices for a vegetarian version.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking.
Let the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this crispy chicken Parmesan with a side of spaghetti or a fresh green salad. Pair it with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, place the chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain its crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe.
Can I freeze this dish? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the breaded chicken before frying for later use.
How can I prevent the breading from falling off? Make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken and let it rest before cooking for better adherence.

Conclusion:

There you have it, the ultimate crispy chicken Parmesan recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out! Enjoy!