Chicken Parmesan

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
Start by preparing your chicken breasts. If they are thick, you may want to butterfly them or gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This helps ensure the chicken cooks evenly.

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano.

#### 2. **Bread the Chicken:**
Set up a breading station by placing three shallow dishes in a row. In the first dish, add the flour. In the second dish, beat the eggs. In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, making sure to coat it evenly. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. Repeat this process for all the chicken breasts.

#### 3. **Fry the Chicken:**
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the pan. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

#### 4. **Prepare the Sauce:**
While the chicken is frying, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Add dried basil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your taste. Let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

#### 5. **Assemble the Chicken Parmesan:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the chicken is fried, place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over each chicken breast, and then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake the chicken in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

#### 6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Once the Chicken Parmesan is done baking, remove it from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

**Serving Suggestions:**
– **Over Pasta:** The most classic way to serve Chicken Parmesan is over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta. The pasta soaks up the marinara sauce, making every bite even more flavorful.
– **As a Sandwich:** For a fun twist, you can serve Chicken Parmesan on a toasted bun with extra marinara and cheese for a delicious sandwich.
– **With a Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of Chicken Parmesan.

### Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan

– **Make Sure the Chicken is Evenly Coated:** When breading the chicken, make sure each piece is evenly coated with the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs to achieve the perfect crispy crust.
– **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** When frying the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and cause the chicken to cook unevenly. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary.
– **Use Homemade Marinara Sauce:** If you have the time, making your own marinara sauce can take this dish to the next level. Fresh, homemade sauce adds a depth of flavor that store-bought sauce might not provide.
– **Use Fresh Mozzarella:** For an even creamier texture, use fresh mozzarella rather than pre-shredded cheese. It melts beautifully and gives the dish a more authentic taste.

### Why Chicken Parmesan Works So Well

Chicken Parmesan is a dish that perfectly balances texture and flavor. The crispy, golden breading provides a satisfying crunch, while the tender, juicy chicken inside makes each bite comforting and hearty. The marinara sauce brings a tangy, slightly sweet contrast to the richness of the cheese, and the mozzarella and Parmesan create a creamy, cheesy finish that pulls everything together.

This dish is a comforting classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a meal that will impress guests, Chicken Parmesan delivers on both flavor and presentation.

### Pairing Chicken Parmesan

– **Red Wine:** A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of Chicken Parmesan.
– **Garlic Bread:** Serve alongside some crispy garlic bread to soak up the extra marinara sauce, making for a truly indulgent meal.
– **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or a simple green bean almondine make for a delicious and healthy side to balance out the richness of the chicken.

### Conclusion: A Meal to Savor

**Chicken Parmesan** is a dish that never fails to impress. Its crispy exterior, tender chicken, and gooey, cheesy topping make it a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish is always a winner. It’s easy to make, customizable, and most importantly, incredibly delicious.

So, the next time you’re craving a hearty and flavorful meal, try making **Chicken Parmesan**. It’s a timeless classic that will quickly become a favorite in your home too!