Chicken Parmesan. Just the name conjures up images of bubbling cheese, crispy chicken, and perfectly cooked spaghetti. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience. And while it might seem intimidating, mastering this classic Italian-American dish is easier than you think. This recipe will guide you through creating a truly unforgettable Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti, from perfectly seasoned chicken to a rich and flavorful marinara sauce.
What You'll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spaghetti:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- Salt for the pasta water
For Assembly:
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
First, we'll get our chicken ready for its crispy transformation. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot oil and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
2. Making the Marinara Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, let's create a delicious marinara sauce. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer gently for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
3. Cooking the Spaghetti:
Cook the spaghetti according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
4. Assembling and Baking the Chicken Parmesan:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour a thin layer of marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the cooked chicken breasts in the dish, top each with a generous spoonful of marinara sauce, and then sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
5. Serving:
Serve the Chicken Parmesan immediately over a bed of spaghetti. Drizzle a little extra marinara sauce over the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Provolone, Fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all be delicious additions or substitutions for the mozzarella.
How can I make the chicken crispier?
Using panko breadcrumbs helps achieve extra crispiness. Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken, and don't overcrowd the pan. Letting the chicken rest on a wire rack after frying also helps maintain crispiness.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The marinara sauce tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
What can I do with leftover Chicken Parmesan?
Leftovers are fantastic! Enjoy them cold or reheat them gently in the oven or microwave.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. It won't be quite as crispy, but it's still delicious.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti! It's a classic for a reason. This detailed guide ensures a fantastic meal every time. Remember to adjust seasonings to your personal preferences for a truly customized experience.
