Classic Chicken Parmesan

Description:

This Classic Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines crispy breaded chicken cutlets with savory tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, all baked to perfection in the oven. This recipe serves four people and takes about 1 hour from start to finish.

Ingredients:

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned if you like)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
3 tablespoons olive oil
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 (26-ounce) jar marinara sauce
Sliced fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparation:

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Serving Size: 4 servings

How to Cook Classic Chicken Parmesan:

Prepare the chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a wire rack over a baking sheet and set aside.
In three shallow dishes, place flour seasoned with salt and pepper in one dish; beaten eggs in another; and breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese in the third. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder on both sides.
Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix. Press the crumbs onto the chicken to help them adhere better.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer the cooked chicken to the prepared baking sheet with wire rack.
Bake the chicken: Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each chicken breast, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Garnish each serving with a few fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot with your favorite pasta or side dishes.

This recipe offers a delicious blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the rich taste of homemade Chicken Parmesan!