Chicken Parmesan
A comforting Chicken Parmesan dish that combines juicy chicken, rich sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts Lean source of protein
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Creates a crispy coating
- 3 large eggs Binds the coating and adds richness
For the Coating
- 1/4 cup olive oil Adds moisture and richness
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes Provides a gentle heat
- Salt Salt Basic seasoning for flavor
- Black pepper Black pepper Basic seasoning for flavor
For the Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped Adds aroma and flavor
- 1 can tomato puree, 15 oz Base of the sauce, contributes moisture
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Adds a nutty, salty flavor
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil Freshens the dish with herbal notes
For the Topping
- 1 1/4 cups grated mozzarella Melts beautifully, adds creaminess
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets of even thickness.
- Pound the cutlets gently with a meat mallet to make them slightly thinner and more tender.
Cooking the Sauce
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped garlic and red pepper flakes, letting them sizzle until fragrant.
- Pour in the tomato puree, grated Parmesan, and chopped basil, stirring gently to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld.
Coating the Chicken
- Season the all-purpose flour with salt and black pepper on a plate.
- In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs and mix in additional Parmesan.
Frying the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Dredge each chicken cutlet in the seasoned flour, then dip in the egg mixture.
- Fry the cutlets until golden brown on both sides.
Baking
- Arrange fried cutlets in a baking dish over the prepared sauce.
- Pour additional sauce over the top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle grated mozzarella and remaining Parmesan over the chicken and sauce.
- Broil in a preheated oven until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Notes
For the best results, ensure chicken cutlets are of even thickness and use fresh basil for enhanced flavor. Let fried cutlets rest briefly on paper towels to absorb excess oil.