Enjoy the classic and flavorful Chicken Parmesan, with its crispy breaded chicken, gooey melted cheese, and tangy tomato sauce. This dish pairs perfectly with pasta or spaghetti for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Cooking oil for frying
For the tomato sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For assembly:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish, beaten eggs in the second dish, and bread crumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, and garlic powder in the third dish.
- Dip each chicken breast into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it gently to adhere.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough cooking oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Cook the breaded chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if needed. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.
- In a separate bowl, combine the marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
- Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the cooked chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
- Spoon more tomato sauce over each chicken breast, covering them completely. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the Chicken Parmesan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the Chicken Parmesan over cooked pasta or with a side of spaghetti, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
