Welcome to your new go-to recipe for a classic Italian-American dish: Chicken Parmigiana Delight. This version brings together the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy goodness with a fresh basil finish. It's a timeless favorite that's sure to impress at any family dinner or cozy night in.
The star of the show is the chicken breasts, offering a tender and juicy base. Seasoning them with salt and black pepper brings out their natural flavors. The all-purpose flour helps the egg stick to the chicken, creating that essential first layer for breading. Eggs act as the glue, ensuring the breadcrumb mixture stays put. Our breadcrumb mix, enhanced with Parmesan cheese, gives the chicken a savory, cheesy crust. Olive oil is used for browning, adding a subtle richness. The marinara sauce provides a tangy, tomato base, pairing perfectly with the layers of melted mozzarella cheese and fragrant oregano. Finally, the chopped fresh basil leaves add a pop of freshness and color to the dish.
This Chicken Parmigiana pairs wonderfully with a side of spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic. A crisp Caesar salad on the side adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy chicken. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with garlic bread to mop up any extra sauce.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your oven is hot and ready by the time you're done preparing the chicken. Next, take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning highlights the chicken's natural taste.
Prepare your dredging station: in one bowl, place the all-purpose flour; in another, beat the eggs; and in a third, mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese. Start by dredging each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat it with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. The layers create a delicious crust that crisps up beautifully.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Brown them on both sides until they're golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. This initial browning is key for flavor and texture.
Transfer the browned chicken to a casserole dish. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-covered. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and dried oregano over the top. The cheese will melt into the sauce as it bakes, creating a luscious topping.
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the chicken is cooked through. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves over the top, adding a fragrant finish.
Share