How to Make Delicious Chicken Parmesan: A Step-by-Step Guide

I. Introduction

If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, you’ve likely had the pleasure of enjoying chicken parmesan. This renowned dish of breaded chicken smothered in tomato sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese is a classic that never goes out of style. But, do you know how to make chicken parmesan from scratch like a pro? Read on for an in-depth recipe, tips, healthier versions, variations, history, and DIY ingredients that will have your guests asking for seconds.

II. Step-by-Step Recipe

To make chicken parmesan, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup of all-purpose flour
1 tbsp. of garlic powder
1 tbsp. of onion powder
1 tsp. of dried oregano
2 large eggs
1 cup of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
1 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp. of salt
1/4 tsp. of black pepper
1 cup of marinara sauce
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves

Here are the step-by-step instructions for making chicken parmesan:

1. Preparing the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Trim the chicken breasts of any fat or veins. Place a chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound it to an even 1/2-inch thickness. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.

2. Making the Bread Crumbs

In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs and a tablespoon of water together. In another medium bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano together. Dip each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, followed by the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs into the chicken to coat it thoroughly. Place the chicken on the baking sheet.

3. Adding the Cheese

Spread the marinara sauce over the chicken breasts and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden brown. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.

III. Tips and Tricks

Making chicken parmesan can be a bit tricky, but these simple tips can make all the difference:

Pound the chicken breasts evenly to ensure they cook evenly in the oven.
Season the tomato sauce with extra herbs and spices, such as basil, thyme, or red pepper flakes, to add more flavor to the dish.
Use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged if possible, as it will have a better flavor and melt more easily.
Before adding the breadcrumbs to the chicken, press them down gently to ensure they adhere well to the chicken.
Bake the chicken on a wire rack instead of a baking sheet to prevent the bottom from getting soggy.

IV. Healthier Version

If you’re looking for a way to make chicken parmesan a bit healthier, try these modifications:

Use whole-grain breadcrumbs instead of white breadcrumbs to add fiber and nutrients to the dish.
Opt for low-fat cheese to decrease the fat and calories in the dish.
Bake the chicken instead of frying it to reduce the oil and calories.
Use more vegetables in the tomato sauce, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, to increase the nutritional value.

V. Variations on the Theme

If you’re a fan of chicken parmesan but want to switch things up a bit, try these variations:

1. Eggplant Parmesan

Replace the chicken with thinly sliced eggplant for a vegetarian-friendly option. Follow the same instructions for coating the eggplant slices with breadcrumbs and cheese, then bake in the oven until golden brown.

2. Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Make chicken meatballs by combining ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and some Italian seasoning. Roll the chicken mixture into balls and bake until golden brown. Then, place them in a baking dish, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

3. Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

Make a sandwich out of the breaded chicken by placing it on a toasted roll with some tomato sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.

VI. History and Background

Chicken parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the Northeastern United States in the early 20th century. While its origins are unclear, it is believed to have been influenced by Italian immigrant cuisine, which often featured breaded and fried meats topped with tomato sauce and cheese. Over the years, chicken parmesan has become a beloved dish in Italian-American households and is now a staple in Italian cuisine restaurants across the U.S. and beyond.

VII. DIY Ingredients

If you’re feeling ambitious, try making these ingredients from scratch:

1. Homemade Tomato Sauce

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for a few minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and sauté for a minute longer. Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes and season with salt, sugar, and your preferred herbs and spices. Simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened and the flavors have melded together.

2. Homemade Bread Crumbs

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place slices of stale bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the bread is dry and crisp. Let the bread cool, then pulse it in a food processor until it forms fine breadcrumbs.

3. Homemade Cheese

You can make your own parmesan cheese by mixing 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese with 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt and 2 tablespoons of milk. Mix well and chill in the fridge for a few hours until it is firm and spreadable.

VIII. Conclusion

Congratulations! You now have all the tools you need to make delicious chicken parmesan at home. Whether you opt for the classic recipe or one of the many variations, these tips, healthier modifications, and homemade ingredients will take your dish to the next level. Give them a try and impress your guests with your culinary prowess.