Chicken Parmesan

Authentic Italian Chicken Parmesan Recipe with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that features breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It is a variation of the traditional Italian dish, Eggplant Parmigiana, which features breaded and fried eggplant slices layered with marinara sauce and cheese. The chicken version became popular in Italian-American restaurants and homes, and has since become a staple in American cuisine.

Ingredients

2.25 lb (1.02 kg) chicken breast, skinned, boned, and halved
0.5 of a 10 oz (283 g) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
0.33 cup grated parmesan cheese
0.25 tsp crushed italian seasoning
0.25 cup sliced green onion
1 tbsp margarine
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
0.5 cup skim milk
1 tbsp chopped pimento

How to prepare

In a small mixing bowl, combine the cheese and Italian seasoning.
Roll the chicken pieces in the cheese mixture to lightly coat them; set aside the remaining cheese mixture.
Arrange the chicken pieces in an 8x8x2 inch baking dish.
In a small saucepan, cook the onion in hot margarine until tender.
Stir in the flour and add the milk all at once.
Cook and stir until bubbly, then stir in the drained spinach and pimento.
Spoon the spinach mixture over the chicken and sprinkle with the remaining cheese mixture.
Bake, uncovered, in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the chicken is tender.

Variations

Use turkey cutlets or pork chops instead of chicken for a different twist.
Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the spinach mixture for extra flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, for a unique taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure a crispy coating on the chicken, make sure to pat the chicken dry before breading it.

- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked.

- For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it.

- Serve the Chicken Parmesan with a side of pasta or a green salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chicken Parmesan with a side of spaghetti or a green salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread or roasted vegetables for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Baking: Bake the Chicken Parmesan in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

- Frying: Fry the breaded chicken in oil until golden brown and crispy before baking it with the sauce and cheese.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach.

- Use breadcrumbs or panko instead of grated cheese for the breading.

- Use olive oil instead of margarine for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Chicken Parmesan ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover the dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the foil and bake as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chicken Parmesan on a bed of marinara sauce with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. You can also garnish it with grated cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Chicken Parmesan with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, for a classic Italian meal. You can also serve it with a light beer or a glass of sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of the Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through, or microwave it in 30-second intervals until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 10g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 35g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% of daily value per serving

- Vitamin C: 10% of daily value per serving

- Calcium: 20% of daily value per serving

- Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese and milk)

- Contains wheat (flour)

Summary

Chicken Parmesan is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, it is also high in fat and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Chicken Parmesan is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. With a crispy coating, tender chicken, and gooey cheese, it is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy this classic Italian-American dish with your favorite side dishes and a glass of wine for a complete meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day many years ago, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little cottage by the sea. Maria was an excellent cook, and I always looked forward to the delicious meals she would prepare for me during my visits.

On this particular day, Maria had decided to make her famous Chicken Parmesan for dinner. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of garlic, tomatoes, and melting cheese. Maria was bustling around the kitchen, chopping vegetables, grating cheese, and pounding chicken breasts.

I watched as she expertly breaded the chicken cutlets, fried them to a perfect golden brown, and then layered them with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. The dish was then popped into the oven to bake until the cheese was bubbly and gooey.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of Maria's Chicken Parmesan and was instantly transported to a state of pure bliss. The flavors were incredible - the crispy chicken, the tangy marinara sauce, the creamy mozzarella cheese. It was a dish unlike any I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

After dinner, I begged Maria to teach me her recipe for Chicken Parmesan. She smiled and agreed, pulling out a worn and stained recipe card that she had written out many years ago. As she walked me through the steps, I realized that this was a dish that required time, patience, and love. But I was determined to master it.

Over the years, I have made Maria's Chicken Parmesan countless times. I have shared it with friends and family, and it has become a beloved staple in my own kitchen. But the beauty of this recipe is that it is not just about the delicious food - it is also about the memories and the stories that come along with it.

I remember the time I made Chicken Parmesan for my grandchildren for the first time. They watched in awe as I pounded the chicken cutlets, breaded them, and fried them to perfection. They eagerly helped me spread the marinara sauce and sprinkle the cheese, and we all laughed as we impatiently waited for the dish to come out of the oven.

As we sat down to eat, I saw the joy on their faces as they took their first bites of Chicken Parmesan. It was a moment of pure happiness and connection, a moment that I will always treasure.

The recipe for Chicken Parmesan is not just a list of ingredients and instructions - it is a story of friendship, love, and tradition. It is a reminder of the moments shared in the kitchen, the laughter exchanged around the table, and the bonds that are strengthened through food.

So as I continue to make Maria's Chicken Parmesan, I do so with a grateful heart and a smile on my face. I am reminded of the wonderful memories that this dish has brought into my life, and I am thankful for the gift of sharing it with others.

And as I pass on this recipe to future generations, I know that it will continue to bring joy, comfort, and connection to all who taste it. For in the end, it is not just about the food - it is about the love that goes into making it, and the memories that it creates.