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Crispy Chicken Parmesan: A Classic Italian Comfort Dish

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Crispy Chicken Parmesan is a timeless Italian-American classic that combines tender chicken cutlets, a golden, crunchy crust, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Every bite is a delicious harmony of textures and flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners, romantic meals, or impressing dinner guests. This comforting dish is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

 

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 cloves garlic, grated
  • 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
  • 6 chicken cutlets
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup regular breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon basil
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For Cooking and Topping:

  • ½ cup avocado oil (or any neutral oil for frying)
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce (1 jar)
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Lightly grease a baking dish or baking sheet to prevent sticking.
  • Marinate the Chicken:
    • In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
    • Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
    • Place the coated chicken in a shallow dish and let it marinate for 15–45 minutes to enhance flavor and help the breading adhere.
  • Prepare the Breading Mixture:
    • In another shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, garlic powder, and salt.
    • Mix thoroughly to create a uniform breading.
  • Bread the Chicken:
    • Remove each chicken cutlet from the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
    • Dip the cutlet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
    • Repeat with all the chicken cutlets and set them aside.
  • Fry the Chicken:
    • Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Once the oil is hot and shimmering, fry the breaded chicken cutlets for about 5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
    • Transfer the cooked chicken to the prepared baking dish.
  • Top with Sauce and Cheese:
    • Spoon about ¼ cup of marinara sauce onto each chicken cutlet.
    • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
  • Bake the Chicken:
    • Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 17–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
    • Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as pasta, salad, or garlic bread.

Notes

  • Thin Cutlets: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking and a crispy crust.
  • Fry First, Bake Later: Frying ensures a crunchy crust, while baking melts the cheese and cooks the chicken through.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality marinara sauce enhance the dish’s flavor.

Find it online: https://friendlywell.com/crispy-chicken-parmesan-a-classic-italian-comfort-dish/