Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that transports you straight to a cozy Italian-American kitchen? Then look no further! This recipe for Grandma's Famous Chicken Parmesan is a classic for a reason – it’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to experience the taste of tradition with this simple yet satisfying dish. This recipe is part of our collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 (24 ounce) jars marinara sauce
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure each piece is fully coated for a beautiful golden crust.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the cooked chicken breasts in the dish. Top each chicken breast with a generous spoonful of marinara sauce and a few slices of mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Let the Chicken Parmesan rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crispy chicken: Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier coating.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a little extra kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with breaded eggplant slices for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Add vegetables: Include sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the baking dish for added flavor and nutrients.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like provolone or fontina.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This recipe is a great example of delicious dishes you can easily make at home. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy your homemade cooking experience and the wonderful flavors of Italian-American cuisine! This recipe is among our best recipes for its simplicity and delightful taste. Consider this recipe a part of your healthy meals journey.