Chicken Parmesan
Prep: 25 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Total: 1 hrs 5 mins | Serves: 4 servings | Cuisine: european
Imagine pulling a bubbling, golden Chicken Parmesan from the oven, the aroma of rich tomatoes and melted cheese filling your kitchen. The crispy, herb-infused crust gives way to tender chicken, all drizzled with a luscious homemade sauce that showcases the flavors of fresh basil and kalamata olives. Each bite is a delightful balance of savory and slightly sweet, thanks to the pinch of sugar that enhances the vibrant tomato sauce.
This classic Italian dish, perfected by Tyler Florence, brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. With just a few key ingredients like extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, and hand-crushed tomatoes, you’ll create a meal that feels special yet is incredibly achievable. Whether you’re serving it over a bed of pasta or alongside a fresh salad, Chicken Parmesan promises to impress and satisfy. So roll up your sleeves, and let the cooking adventure begin!
Chicken Parmesan
Instructions
Step 1
To start off your Chicken Parmesan, grab a large sauté pan and drizzle a generous amount of olive oil to coat the bottom. Set the pan over medium heat and wait for the oil to shimmer and become hazy—this usually takes just a couple of minutes. While the oil heats up, chop your onions and garlic, and gather a few bay leaves. Once the oil is ready, toss in the onions, garlic, and bay leaves, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to cook them for about 5 minutes, or until they’re fragrant and soft, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
Next, add in a handful of olives and some fresh basil that you’ve torn into pieces—this adds a lovely burst of flavor. Now, it’s time to carefully introduce the tomatoes to the pan; take your time to avoid splashes! Stir everything together, letting it simmer for around 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the sauce as it thickens, and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When the liquid has reduced and the sauce is nice and thick, season it with a pinch of sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it hang out on the stove while you prepare the rest of your dish. Your sauce is coming together beautifully!
Step 2
Let’s get your oven ready for some delicious Chicken Parmesan! Start by turning the dial to 450 degrees F. While the oven warms up, take a moment to gather your ingredients and prep your baking sheet with a little oil or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, you’ll know you’re just a few steps away from that golden, bubbling goodness.
Step 3
To start, let’s create a little assembly line for our chicken. Place your chicken breasts side by side on a cutting board, then cover them with a piece of plastic wrap. Using a flat meat mallet, gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1/2-inch thick, which helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.
Next, grab a shallow platter and pour in the flour, adding a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a fork to mix it all together, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed. Now, in a wide bowl, crack the eggs and add a splash of water. Beat the mixture until it’s nice and frothy—this will be your egg wash. Finally, on a separate plate, pour out the breadcrumbs and season them with salt and pepper to give your chicken that delicious flavor boost. Now you’re all set for the next steps!
Step 4
To start, warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when it shimmers lightly and a drop of water sizzles upon contact. While the oil heats, prepare your chicken cutlets: first, lightly coat both sides in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured cutlets into the egg wash, ensuring they are completely covered, and let the extra drip back into the bowl. Finally, dredge them in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them stick.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the cutlets in the skillet. Fry them for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust. Remember to turn them only once, so they get that perfect crispy exterior. You’re doing great—just look at that golden color!
Step 5
To start, grab your ladle and carefully spoon the rich tomato-olive sauce over each piece of chicken, making sure they're generously coated. Next, sprinkle a generous handful of mozzarella cheese on top, followed by a dusting of Parmesan. Don’t forget to add fresh basil for that aromatic touch!
Now, pop the baking dish into a preheated oven set to 400°F (200°C) and let it bake for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the cheese melts and starts to bubble — you want it to be beautifully golden and gooey. Once it's reached that perfect bubbly state, take it out and get ready to serve your delicious Chicken Parmesan hot, alongside a plate of spaghetti. Enjoy every bite!
Nutrition Information
calories: 1308
fat: 49g
carbohydrate: 138g
protein: 78g
fiber: 14g
sugar: 16g
servingSize: 1 of 4 servings
My Tip
For the best Chicken Parmesan, make sure to pound the chicken breasts evenly to about 1/2-inch thick; this ensures they cook through perfectly and stay juicy. A flat meat mallet works wonders here, giving you that ideal texture for a delightful bite.
Leftovers
To store your Chicken Parmesan leftovers, place them in a shallow airtight container to help maintain that delicious crispy crust. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, which will keep the chicken warm and the cheese melty!
Make It Your Own
For a delightful twist, try swapping the chicken for eggplant slices. Bread and bake the eggplant until golden, then layer it with the same rich tomato sauce and fresh basil for a satisfying vegetarian take on Chicken Parmesan.
