CHICKEN PARMESAN

Chicken Parmesan, a mouthwatering Italian-American classic, is a delightful dish that combines crispy, breaded chicken cutlets with a rich, tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a comfort food favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary novice, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-quality results. 

INGREDIENTS

  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ⅓ cup plain breadcrumbs
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 3 large chicken breasts, butterflied and cut into 6 cutlets
  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 12 thin pieces
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

METHOD

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F and position a rack in the center.
  • Prepare three shallow bowls or rimmed plates:
    • In one, beat the eggs until smooth.
    • In the second, place the flour.
    • In the third, mix panko breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
  • In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Season the chicken cutlets evenly on both sides.
  • Dredge each chicken cutlet one by one:
    • Coat in flour, shaking off excess.
    • Dip into the egg, letting the excess drip off.
    • Press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
  • Heat ¼ cup olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add 3 chicken cutlets and cook until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking sheet. Add the remaining ¼ cup oil to the skillet, heating until glistening, then repeat with the remaining chicken cutlets.
  • Top each chicken cutlet with ¼ cup marinara sauce and 2 slices of mozzarella. Bake in the oven for 10-14 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is melted.
  • Garnish with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes, if desired.

NUTRITION INFO (PER SERVING)

  • Calories: 488
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Total Fat: 33g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 137mg
  • Sodium: 442mg
  • Total Sugars: 1g