Chicken Parmesan

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with Chicken Parmesan – a delightful combination of crispy breaded chicken cutlets topped with savory marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This classic dish is a mouthwatering treat that has earned a special place in the hearts of many. With its simple yet flavorful preparation, Chicken Parmesan is sure to become a family favorite. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor the cheesy, saucy goodness of this American classic.

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, about 8 ounces each, split horizontally in half, to make 4 cutlets
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1½ cups panko-style bread crumbs
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 ounces Parmigiano-Reggiano, finely grated (about 1 cup)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 recipe Perfect Easy Red Sauce (recipe not provided)
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and adjust an oven rack to the center position. Place each chicken cutlet between plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat pounder or the bottom of a heavy skillet until ¼- to ⅛-inch thick. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.
2. In a shallow bowl or pie plate, combine the bread crumbs, dried oregano, and ¼ cup of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. Place the flour and beaten eggs in separate shallow bowls.
3. Use your right hand to pick up one chicken cutlet and add it to the bowl of flour. Use your left hand to coat it evenly with flour, then use your right hand to transfer the chicken to the beaten eggs. Turn the chicken with your left hand until evenly coated, then use your left hand to transfer it to the bread crumbs. Lift some crumbs with your right hand and press them onto the top of the chicken, then use your right hand to turn the chicken several times, pressing it into the crumbs until evenly coated. Transfer to a wire rack set on a rimmed baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining cutlets.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a 12-inch nonstick or cast-iron skillet over high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully add the chicken cutlets (you may need to work in two batches) and cook until the first side is golden brown, about 3 minutes. Carefully flip the chicken with tongs and cook until the second side is golden brown, about 2 minutes longer. Transfer the cutlets to a paper-towel-lined tray to absorb excess oil.
5. Spread half of the Perfect Easy Red Sauce over the bottom of a large oven-safe serving platter or baking dish. Add the chicken cutlets, slightly overlapping them if needed. Spread the remaining sauce evenly down the center of the cutlets, leaving the edges exposed. Scatter the grated mozzarella and half of the remaining grated Parmigiano-Reggiano evenly over the sauce.
6. Bake the Chicken Parmesan until the cheese has melted and just started to brown, about 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes.
7. Sprinkle the chicken with the remaining grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, minced basil, and parsley. Serve and enjoy!

NOTE:

• Chicken Parmesan is a delicious dish that brings together the crispiness of breaded chicken with the richness of marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a fantastic meal for gatherings or family dinners that will leave everyone satisfied and wanting more. Serve it with your favorite pasta or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the deliciousness of this American classic!