How To Fry Chicken For Chicken Parmesan

Topics:
How To Fry Chicken For Chicken Parmesan

How To Fry Chicken For Chicken Parm

Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parm, is a delicious Italian-American dish that combines breaded and fried chicken cutlets with marinara sauce and melted cheese. The key to a perfect Chicken Parm lies in frying the chicken to perfection. In this article, we will guide you through the process of frying chicken for Chicken Parm.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

  1. Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them gently using a meat mallet or a rolling pin until they are about 1/2 inch thick.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour with salt and pepper. In another dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C). It is important to have enough oil to ensure the chicken cutlets are fully submerged while frying.
  4. Dip each chicken breast into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil and fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure to avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches if needed.
  6. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Tips for Perfectly Fried Chicken:

  • Use a deep skillet or a Dutch oven for frying to prevent oil splatters.
  • Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature; it should read around 350°F (180°C).
  • Do not overcrowd the pan as it can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
  • Use a slotted spoon or tongs to turn the chicken pieces gently to avoid breaking the coating.
  • Always drain the fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Once you have perfectly fried your chicken cutlets, you can now assemble your Chicken Parm. Top the fried chicken with marinara sauce and a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve your Chicken Parm with pasta or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Now that you know how to fry chicken for Chicken Parm, you can impress your family and friends with this classic Italian favorite. Enjoy!

Want to share your tips and techniques for frying chicken to make the perfect Chicken Parmesan? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum.
FAQ:
Can I use any type of chicken to make chicken parm?
While you can technically use any type of chicken, it is best to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for chicken parm. This allows for even cooking and a tender texture.
Should I marinate the chicken before frying it?
Marinating the chicken is not necessary for chicken parm. However, you can season it with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to enhance the flavor.
What oil should I use for frying the chicken?
It is recommended to use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil. These oils can withstand high temperatures without burning.
How long should I fry the chicken for?
The frying time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts. On average, it takes about 3-4 minutes per side to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
How can I prevent the breading from falling off during frying?
To ensure the breading stays intact, make sure the chicken is fully coated with flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally, coat it with breadcrumbs. Additionally, allow the breaded chicken to rest for a few minutes before frying to allow the coating to set.
Should I use a deep fryer or a frying pan?
You can use either a deep fryer or a frying pan to fry the chicken. If using a frying pan, make sure it is deep enough to submerge the chicken completely. However, using a deep fryer can provide more consistent and even frying results.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it for chicken parm?
While frying the chicken gives it a crispy texture, you can bake it instead for a healthier option. To bake, place the breaded chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

Was this page helpful?

Read Next: How To Fry Fish In Oil

Abby Marcelino

Abby is a writer, editor, and a fan of ASMR mukbang and cooking videos. Her family has been in the food industry for years and she has been working for their business as a part-time quality assurance officer and content creator. She is addicted to all things dairy and carbs, most especially cheese and bread.