Easy Homemade Chicken Parmesan

Suggested Equipment

• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Three shallow bowls for breading
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Butterfly and Pound the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets. Place them between plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This helps it cook evenly and stay tender.
2. Season the Chicken: Season each piece of chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

1. Set Up Breading Stations: Use three shallow bowls. Place the flour in the first bowl, the beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in the third.
2. Bread the Chicken: First, dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 cup of oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the breaded chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Add Sauce and Cheese: Place the fried chicken cutlets on a baking sheet. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce onto each piece and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
3. Bake Until Cheese is Melted: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
2. Serve: Enjoy your Chicken Parmesan with pasta, a fresh salad, or garlic bread!

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Tips and Variations

• Make It Healthier: For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken cutlets on a wire rack at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes instead of frying, then top with sauce and cheese.
• Add Spice: For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Try Different Cheeses: Replace mozzarella with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a richer flavor.
• Serve It as a Sandwich: Turn it into a Chicken Parmesan sandwich by placing it on a toasted sub roll with extra sauce and cheese.

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