Classic Chicken Parmesan

1. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan, garlic powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
4. Coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Fry the breaded chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
   • Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Assemble and Bake:
   • Place the fried chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish.
   • Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, spreading it evenly.
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the sauce.
7. Bake the Chicken:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
   • Serve hot with pasta, a side salad, or garlic bread.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with spaghetti or your favorite pasta tossed in extra marinara sauce.
• Serve with a fresh green salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Enjoy with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables for a healthier option.

Cooking Tips:

• Make sure the chicken breasts are evenly pounded for even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• For a healthier version, bake the breaded chicken breasts at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes instead of frying, before adding the marinara and cheese and baking again.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Chicken: High in protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Tomatoes (in marinara sauce): Rich in vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
• Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.

Dietary Information:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
• Low-Carb: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

Conclusion:

Classic Chicken Parmesan is a timeless dish that combines the best of Italian flavors in a simple and satisfying way. With its crispy breaded chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this delicious dish!