Crispy Chicken Parmigiana

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Perfection: The golden breadcrumb coating gives every bite the perfect crunch.
• Rich Flavor: Tangy marinara sauce, gooey cheese, and a hint of Italian herbs make this dish irresistible.
• Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or as a sandwich for a variety of meal options.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and easily available ingredients.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce and cheese

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 520
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce and Topping:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound them to an even thickness, about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking.
2. Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls. Place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika in the third.
3. Bread the Chicken: Coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
4. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Preheat Oven: While frying, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Assemble the Chicken Parmigiana: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a large baking dish. Place the fried chicken breasts in the dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, covering the surface.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the sauced chicken.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Ingredient Background

• Chicken Breasts: Pound them evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. Bone-in chicken can be used but requires longer cooking times.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs work perfectly for a classic texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the breading and topping. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.
• Marinara Sauce: Opt for a high-quality store-bought brand or make your own with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully but may release more liquid. Low-moisture mozzarella is ideal for a firm, gooey topping.

Technique Tips

• Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before breading to help the coating stick.
• Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, cook the chicken in batches if necessary to maintain even browning and crispiness.
• Use an Oven-Safe Skillet: If available, an oven-safe skillet allows you to go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Classic Plate: Serve with spaghetti or linguine tossed in marinara sauce.
• Parmesan Sandwich: Place the chicken in a crusty roll with extra sauce and cheese for a hearty sandwich.
• Small Bites: Slice the chicken into strips and serve as an appetizer with dipping sauce.
• Layered Casserole: Layer the fried chicken with pasta and sauce in a baking dish for a comforting casserole-style meal.

Additional Tips for Success

• Let the Breaded Chicken Rest: Allow the breaded chicken to sit for 5–10 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley enhances the dish’s flavor and adds a vibrant garnish.
• Crispier Texture: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or mix them with traditional breadcrumbs.
• Customize the Seasoning: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or oregano to the breadcrumb mixture for a unique twist.

Recipe Variations

• Eggplant Parmigiana: Replace chicken with slices of breaded and fried eggplant for a vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a celiac-friendly dish.
• Spicy Chicken Parmigiana: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle them over the cheese.
• Herb-Crusted Parmigiana: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture.
• Double Cheese Delight: Use a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan for a richer flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to retain crispiness.
• Freezing: Fully cooked Chicken Parmigiana can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Bake Instead of Fry: Skip the frying step and bake the breaded chicken at 400°F on a wire rack for 20–25 minutes.
• Whole Wheat Breading: Use whole wheat breadcrumbs and flour for added fiber.
• Low-Fat Cheese: Substitute low-fat mozzarella and Parmesan to reduce calories.
• Vegetable Base: Use zucchini or cauliflower slices as a base for a lighter alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Dinner Parties: Pair with a Caesar salad, garlic bread, and a bottle of red wine for an elegant presentation.
• Family Night: Serve with spaghetti and roasted vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.
• Potluck Favorite: Slice into smaller portions and serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
• Weeknight Comfort: Serve alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a quick and comforting dinner.

Special Equipment

• Meat Mallet: To pound chicken breasts to an even thickness.
• Shallow Bowls: For easy breading without making a mess.
• Nonstick Skillet: Prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
• Oven-Safe Dish: A sturdy baking dish or cast-iron skillet is ideal for baking the assembled chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well, but they may take slightly longer to cook.

Q2: How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
Make sure the chicken is dry before breading, and press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the surface. Let the breaded chicken rest before frying.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and bread the chicken in advance, then fry and assemble just before baking.

Q4: What’s the best marinara sauce to use?
A high-quality store-bought sauce works well, or you can make your own using crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and Italian herbs.

Q5: How can I make this dish healthier?
Bake the breaded chicken instead of frying and use low-fat cheese to reduce calories and fat content.

Q6: Can I freeze uncooked breaded chicken?
Yes, bread the chicken and freeze it on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen or thaw before frying.

Q7: What sides go well with Chicken Parmigiana?
Spaghetti, mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad are excellent options.

Q8: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. From their crispy edges to their gooey centers, these bites offer a burst of flavor in every mouthful. Whether you’re hosting a party, serving a casual family dinner, or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe delivers every time. With endless customization options, easy preparation, and guaranteed satisfaction, Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Pair them with a hearty marinara sauce, creamy ranch, or a zesty garlic aioli to take them to the next level of deliciousness.

Crispy Chicken Parmigiana

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Ingredients

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For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce and Topping:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound them to an even thickness, about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking.
2. Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls. Place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika in the third.
3. Bread the Chicken: Coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
4. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Preheat Oven: While frying, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Assemble the Chicken Parmigiana: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a large baking dish. Place the fried chicken breasts in the dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, covering the surface.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the sauced chicken.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce and cheese
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 6g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g