Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both easy on the wallet and simple to prepare? Look no further! This Chicken with Bread recipe is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. It's a classic dish elevated with simple yet impactful techniques, resulting in juicy, flavorful chicken and perfectly crispy bread. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes – making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or even a crusty baguette work well)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. This is crucial for building flavor.
- In a shallow dish, place the flour. In a separate shallow dish, whisk the eggs. In a third dish, combine the breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it in the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Cooking the Chicken and Bread:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
- While the chicken is cooking, melt the butter in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the bread slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serving:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the chicken with the crispy bread slices. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for at least 30 minutes before breading.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the breading mixture. Italian seasoning, oregano, or thyme would all be delicious additions.
- If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Simply place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheese over the bread slices during the last minute of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Chicken with Bread recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this delicious and quick dinner idea that’s easy to customize to your liking. It's a great example of homemade cooking that doesn't require extensive culinary skills, making it accessible to everyone. Remember to adjust seasonings to your personal preference and explore different bread and herb combinations for a unique and flavorful experience each time. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite!