Get ready to elevate your family dinner with this Herb-Crusted Chicken Parmigiana. It's a classic with a flavorful twist, combining the crunch of herb-infused breadcrumbs with the comfort of melted cheese and rich marinara sauce.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts form the hearty base, perfect for absorbing flavors without being too heavy. All-purpose flour creates a light coating to help the egg stick. Eggs act as a glue, ensuring our flavorful breadcrumb mixture clings to the chicken. The panko breadcrumbs provide a crispy texture, while Parmesan adds a touch of umami and saltiness. Dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, and onion powder infuse the crust with delightful aromas. Black pepper and salt enhance all the flavors. Marinara sauce brings in the classic Italian flair, and shredded mozzarella cheese offers that gooey topping we all love. Fresh basil leaves add a refreshing finish, and olive oil helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, consider serving with garlic bread or a side of creamy mashed potatoes. A glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors perfectly.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures nothing sticks and cleanup is easy. Next, grab your chicken breasts and give them a good pounding to about 1/2 inch thickness. This step helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
Set up your breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first one, pour in the flour. Beat the eggs and place them in the second bowl. In the third bowl, mix together the panko, Parmesan, Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. This is where the magic happens!
Take each chicken piece and dredge it in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well. Now, heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken piece for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. You’re not cooking them through here, just getting that crunchy exterior started.
Transfer the seared chicken to your prepared baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, making sure it’s well-covered for that perfect cheesy finish.
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be melted and bubbly. Once it’s out of the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
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