Description
Savory Classic Chicken Parmigiana brings Italian culinary magic to dinner tables with golden-crusted chicken blanketed in rich marinara and melted cheese. Crispy exterior and tender meat create an irresistible combination that delivers pure comfort on a plate.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 4 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- ⅓ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Coating and Seasoning:
- 1 ½ cups bread crumbs
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated (divided)
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Sauce and Garnish:
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 10 ounces (283 grams) spaghetti (to serve with chicken)
Instructions
- Arrange three distinct seasoning stations on the counter: a plate dusted with grated Parmesan, a bowl of whisked eggs, and a shallow dish combining bread crumbs, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Methodically transform each chicken breast by first rolling it through the Parmesan, creating a delicate initial coating that enhances flavor and texture.
- Submerge the Parmesan-dusted chicken completely in the egg mixture, ensuring every surface becomes perfectly moistened and ready for breading.
- Carefully transfer the egg-coated chicken into the herbed bread crumb mixture, gently pressing to create an even, crisp exterior that will seal in moisture.
- Warm olive oil in a robust cast iron skillet, allowing it to reach a precise medium-high temperature that promotes beautiful golden browning.
- Carefully place breaded chicken into the hot skillet, cooking approximately 3 minutes per side until a rich, amber crust develops and chicken gains beautiful caramelized edges.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F, preparing a baking vessel that can transition from stovetop to oven with ease.
- Strategically layer mozzarella slices atop each browned chicken breast, creating a luxurious dairy foundation.
- Generously cascade marinara sauce over the chicken, allowing the vibrant red sauce to mingle with melting cheese.
- Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella and reserved Parmesan across the surface for extra decadence.
- Slide the skillet into the preheated oven, allowing 30 minutes for the sauce to bubble and cheese to transform into a molten, appetizing blanket.
- Remove from oven and garnish with freshly torn basil leaves, then present elegantly atop a bed of perfectly prepared spaghetti.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are evenly pounded to the same thickness for consistent cooking and optimal breading coverage.
- Pat chicken dry before breading to help the coating adhere better and create a crispier exterior.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture, which elevates the overall dish quality and mouthfeel.
- Experiment with alternative protein options like eggplant or chicken substitutes for vegetarian or dietary-restricted di
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg