Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken

Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken is a delicious and crispy dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the flavors of Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic salt, and parsley to create a flavorful coating for the chicken. The chicken is then baked in the oven until it is golden brown and cooked through.

History

Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken is a modern twist on traditional fried chicken. By baking the chicken instead of frying it, this recipe offers a healthier alternative that is just as tasty. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.

Ingredients

1 cup of dry breadcrumbs
0.5 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese
0.5 tsp of paprika
0.5 tsp of garlic salt
a grind of black pepper
2 tbsp of chopped parsley
4 tbsp (0.5 stick) of butter or margarine
1 free-range chicken, about 3 lb, cut into pieces

How to prepare

In a medium-sized bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, paprika, garlic salt, pepper, and parsley.
In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Dip the chicken in the melted butter, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Place the chicken, skin side up, on a lightly oiled or oil-sprayed baking pan, ensuring the pieces do not touch (you may use two pans if necessary).
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for one hour or until the meat near the thighbone is no longer pink when tested with a knife.
To serve cold, transfer to a platter, cover loosely with foil, and refrigerate until well chilled.

Variations

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary, to customize the flavor of the chicken.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure that the chicken is crispy and golden brown, make sure to coat each piece thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Additionally, placing the chicken on a lightly oiled baking pan will help prevent it from sticking during baking. For extra flavor, you can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the chicken in the oven instead of frying it helps reduce the amount of oil and fat in the dish, making it a healthier option. Make sure to preheat the oven and bake the chicken at the correct temperature to ensure that it cooks evenly and becomes crispy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can use grated cheddar or mozzarella instead. You can also substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or panko for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the breadcrumb mixture and coat the chicken in advance, then refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. This can help save time on busy weeknights or when hosting a dinner party.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken is a good source of vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (Parmesan cheese) and gluten (breadcrumbs).

Summary

Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein and essential nutrients. However, it is also high in fat and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. By baking the chicken instead of frying it, this recipe offers a healthier alternative that is just as tasty. With a crispy coating of Parmesan cheese, paprika, and garlic salt, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a hot summer day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had found at a yard sale. As soon as I saw the recipe for Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken, I knew I had to try it.

I had always loved cooking, but I had never made anything quite like this before. The combination of crispy chicken and gooey parmesan cheese seemed like the perfect comfort food. I couldn't wait to give it a go.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen. As I followed the recipe, I felt a sense of excitement building inside me. I knew that this dish had the potential to be something truly special.

After what felt like hours of preparation, I finally popped the chicken into the oven and waited for it to cook. The smell of the parmesan cheese melting over the crispy chicken was almost too much to bear. I couldn't wait to take it out and dig in.

When the timer finally went off, I pulled the chicken out of the oven and set it on the table. The golden brown crust was perfectly crispy, and the cheese had melted into a delicious gooey mess. I couldn't believe how good it looked.

As I took my first bite, I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly amazing. The flavors of the crispy chicken and the savory parmesan cheese melded together in perfect harmony. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before.

I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my friends and family. I knew that they would love it just as much as I did. From that day on, Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken became a staple in my cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times. Each time, it brings back memories of that hot summer day when I first discovered it. The thrill of stumbling upon something so delicious and comforting never gets old.

As I sit here now, reflecting on all the recipes I have learned over the years, I can't help but feel grateful for the joy that cooking has brought me. It has been a source of comfort and creativity, allowing me to express myself in a way that nothing else can.

And while I may have acquired many recipes from various places and people over the years, Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken will always hold a special place in my heart. It was the dish that opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of cooking, and for that, I will always be grateful.