How To Fry Chicken Parm: A Delicious and Simple Recipe
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parm, is a classic Italian-American dish that is loved by many. Crispy breaded chicken cutlets topped with tangy marinara sauce and melted cheese – what’s not to love? In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the steps of frying chicken Parmesan to perfection. So, let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Chopped fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This will ensure that they cook evenly and result in tender chicken Parmesan.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
- In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
- Top each chicken breast with a generous amount of marinara sauce, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil, if desired, and serve with your favorite pasta or a side salad.
There you have it – a delicious plate of homemade chicken Parmesan that will satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
Remember, frying chicken Parmesan requires some attention and care, especially when dealing with hot oil. Always use caution and follow proper kitchen safety guidelines. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of cooking this mouthwatering dish!
Share your thoughts and experiences on frying up the perfect chicken parmesan in the Cooking Techniques forum section.
FAQ:
Can I use any type of chicken for chicken parm?
Yes, you can use different types of chicken for chicken parm. The most common choice is boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but you can also use chicken tenders or even bone-in chicken pieces like thighs or drumsticks if desired. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the size and thickness of the chicken.
Do I have to pound the chicken before frying?
Pounding the chicken breasts before frying can help to tenderize them and create an even thickness for more uniform cooking. While it is not mandatory, it is recommended to pound the chicken to about 1/2-inch thickness to ensure that it cooks evenly and remains juicy.
What type of oil is best for frying chicken parm?
The best oil for frying chicken parm is one with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils can withstand high heat without burning or smoking, which is essential for achieving a crispy and golden crust on the chicken.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
While mozzarella is the traditional cheese used in chicken parm, you can certainly experiment with other cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Some popular alternatives include provolone, fontina, or a blend of different cheeses. Just make sure to choose a melting cheese that complements the flavors of the dish.
How can I prevent the breading from falling off the chicken during frying?
To help the breading adhere better to the chicken, it’s important to properly coat and bread the chicken. Pat the chicken dry before dredging it in flour, dip it in beaten eggs, and then coat it with breadcrumbs, making sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly into the chicken. Additionally, refrigerating the breaded chicken for about 20-30 minutes before frying can also help the breading to set and adhere better.
Can I prepare chicken parm in advance?
Yes, you can prepare chicken parm in advance. After frying the chicken and melting the cheese, you can refrigerate the dish for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven until heated through. However, keep in mind that the texture of the breading may not be as crispy as when freshly made.
Can I make a healthier version of chicken parm?
Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier version of chicken parm, you can opt for baking instead of frying the breaded chicken. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet, lightly spray it with cooking oil, and bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until cooked through and the cheese is melted. This method reduces the amount of oil used and still yields a tasty chicken parm.
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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.
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