Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for chicken chop is your answer. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a family meal or even a casual get-together. This homemade cooking masterpiece combines juicy chicken with crispy edges, creating a delicious dish the whole family will adore. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- Begin by gently pounding your chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents overly thick or thin portions. Aim for about 1/2 inch thickness.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Season generously.
- In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- Place the breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
Coating and Frying the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat each chicken breast thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious chicken chop immediately. Consider these serving suggestions:
- Pair it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- A simple lemon-herb butter sauce adds a burst of flavor.
- For a heartier meal, serve it with a rich gravy.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Chop:
- Don't overcrowd the skillet. Cook the chicken breasts in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- For extra crispy chicken, you can double-bread the chicken: flour, egg, breadcrumbs, then repeat the egg and breadcrumbs steps.
- Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Feel free to add other spices such as onion powder, cayenne pepper, or herbs like oregano or thyme.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Chop: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Parmesan Chicken Chop: Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumbs for a cheesy twist.
- Herb-Crusted Chicken Chop: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill to the breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 35-40g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
This easy recipe for chicken chop offers a delicious and healthy meal option. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for any occasion! It's a great addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Happy cooking!