Randy Chandler
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parm, is an Italian-American dish consisting of breaded chicken, tomato sauce, and cheese. While the name suggests that the dish contains Parmesan cheese, the term Parm or Parmesan in Chicken Parmesan does not refer to the cheese but rather to the fact that the dish originated in the Parma region of Italy. Interestingly, the dish is not traditionally found in Parma or elsewhere in Italy, and it is said to have evolved from Melanzane alla Parmigiana or Parmigiana di melanzane, an eggplant dish. In Chicken Parmesan, Parmesan cheese can be used in two ways: mixed with breadcrumbs to create a crispy coating and sprinkled over the chicken for a salty, rich flavor. However, the use of Parmesan cheese is not mandatory, and some recipes suggest using other types of cheese such as mozzarella or provolone.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dish Type | Italian-American |
| Main Ingredients | Chicken, Cheese, Tomato Sauce |
| Cheese Options | Parmesan, Mozzarella, Provolone |
| Chicken Type | Cutlets, Breasts, Tenders |
| Chicken Preparation | Tenderize, Bread, Fry, Bake |
| Breading | Flour, Eggs, Breadcrumbs, Parmesan |
| Spices | Basil, Parsley, Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder |
| Oil | Olive Oil |
| Sauce | Marinara, Tomato Sauce |
| Serving Suggestions | Pasta, Salad, Sandwich |
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What You'll Learn
Chicken Parmesan is an Italian-American dish
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parm, is an Italian-American dish. It is believed to have originated from the Italian dish Melanzane alla Parmigiana or Parmigiana di melanzane, which is known in the United States as Eggplant Parmesan. The name "Parmigiana" refers to the Parma region of Italy, where the cheese Parmigiano-Reggiano originates, and indicates that the dish has layers.
Chicken Parmesan is made with breaded chicken that is typically pan-fried and then baked with tomato sauce, cheese, and herbs. The chicken is usually coated in a breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, which adds flavour and a crispy texture. The chicken is then topped with tomato sauce and a variety of cheeses, including mozzarella, provolone, and additional Parmesan. The dish is baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through.
While the dish includes Parmesan cheese, the name "Chicken Parmesan" does not refer to the use of Parmesan cheese specifically. The name is derived from the Italian dish it is based on, Melanzane alla Parmigiana, which does not necessarily include Parmesan cheese in its original form. The use of Parmesan in Chicken Parmesan is a result of the evolution of the dish in the United States, where Italian immigrants may have incorporated the cheese into the recipe.
Chicken Parmesan is a popular and well-loved dish, often considered a classic in Italian-American cuisine. It is known for its juicy chicken, crisp crust, and rich flavours from the combination of tomato sauce, melted cheese, and herbs. It is a versatile dish that can be prepared in advance and reheated, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special Italian dinners.
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Parmesan is added to breadcrumbs for flavour and texture
Parmesan is added to breadcrumbs to enhance the flavour and texture of chicken parmesan. The cheese adds a salty richness to the breadcrumbs and creates an extra crispy coating when fried. This technique is known as a parmesan crust.
When making chicken parmesan, it is important to first pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of around 1/2 an inch. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and provides a consistent texture throughout the dish. The chicken is then seasoned with salt and pepper before being coated in flour, eggs, and finally, the parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.
The parmesan-breadcrumb coating is a key component of chicken parmesan, providing a crispy texture and a rich flavour. By adding parmesan to the breadcrumbs, the dish takes on an extra layer of flavour. Frying the chicken in this coating gives it a golden brown crust that adds a satisfying crunch when bitten into.
The type of breadcrumbs used can also vary, with some recipes calling for plain breadcrumbs, while others suggest using Italian breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs for extra crispness. The amount of parmesan added to the breadcrumbs can be adjusted to taste, but it is typically mixed with the breadcrumbs in a ratio that ensures the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the coating.
Overall, the addition of parmesan to the breadcrumbs in chicken parmesan is a crucial step in creating a dish with a unique flavour and texture profile. The combination of crispy, golden breadcrumbs and salty, rich parmesan is what makes chicken parmesan a favourite among many.
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Mozzarella is also used in Chicken Parmesan
While Chicken Parmesan traditionally uses Parmesan, some recipes also use mozzarella. Mozzarella is a fresh cheese that melts well and adds a rich flavour to the dish. It can be used alongside Parmesan or on its own.
Some recipes suggest sprinkling shredded mozzarella over the chicken before baking it in the oven. Others suggest mixing mozzarella with Parmesan and layering this cheese mixture over the chicken. This mixture can also be used to top the chicken, along with fresh basil, before serving.
Mozzarella is also used in the breading of the chicken. The chicken is coated in flour, eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan, before being fried. The fried chicken is then topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella and baked in the oven.
The use of mozzarella in Chicken Parmesan is quite flexible, with some recipes suggesting that any cheese that tastes good can be used.
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The dish is baked in the oven
Chicken Parmesan is an Italian-American dish that consists of breaded chicken that is typically pan-fried and then baked with tomato sauce, cheese, and herbs. The dish is baked in the oven, and there are a few key steps to follow to ensure it turns out perfectly.
First, preheat your oven to a high temperature, typically around 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the cheese will brown slightly and the breading will crisp up before the chicken gets overcooked. While the oven is preheating, prepare the chicken by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and then coat with flour, egg, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Next, fry the breaded chicken in a pan with a small amount of oil until it is golden brown. This step gives the chicken a crispy texture and helps to remove surface moisture. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and top with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and any other desired toppings such as basil or provolone cheese. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavor.
Finally, bake the chicken in the preheated oven until the cheese is browned and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through. This typically takes around 10-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken and the oven temperature. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is safely cooked.
Chicken Parmesan is a delicious and comforting dish that can be served over spaghetti noodles or zoodles, or even used to make sandwiches. The key to a successful dish is a crispy, golden-brown breading and melted, bubbly cheese. By following these steps and baking the dish in the oven, you can achieve the perfect Chicken Parmesan.
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Chicken Parmesan is also known as Chicken Parm
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parm, is an Italian-American dish consisting of breaded chicken topped with tomato sauce and cheese. The dish is thought to have originated from the Parma region of Italy, similar to Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, although it does not traditionally contain this type of cheese.
Chicken Parmesan is typically made with chicken breasts that are pounded to an even thickness, seasoned with salt and pepper, and coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs are often seasoned with dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese to add flavour to the dish. After coating the chicken, it is then pan-fried until golden brown and crispy, before being transferred to a baking dish and layered with tomato sauce and cheese. The cheese used can vary but typically includes mozzarella and Parmesan, although provolone and Italian cheese blends are also used. The dish is then baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through.
Chicken Parm is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. It can be served as-is with a side of pasta or zoodles, or it can be served as a sandwich inside toasted bread or rolls. It is a popular dish due to its ease of preparation, make-ahead convenience, and ability to reheat well.
While the dish is called Chicken Parmesan, it is important to note that the use of Parmesan cheese is not a requirement. The name of the dish is derived from its origins in the Parma region of Italy, and not from the specific type of cheese used. The choice of cheese is flexible, and cooks can use whatever they prefer or have on hand. This flexibility is part of the beauty of cooking, where recipes can be adapted to personal preferences and tastes.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Parmesan cheese is used in chicken Parmesan. It is added to the breadcrumbs to create extra flavor and richness and is also sprinkled over the chicken.
Mozzarella is the most commonly used cheese in chicken Parmesan, along with Parmesan. Provolone is also used in some recipes.
The amount of cheese used in chicken Parmesan varies depending on the recipe and personal preference. Some recipes suggest using a cup of Parmesan and mozzarella each, while others recommend using less cheese or leaving it out altogether.
Chicken Parmesan is based on the dish Melanzane da Parmigiana, or eggplant Parmesan, which is where the name comes from. The dish originated in the Parma region of Italy, and the name "parmigiana" refers to the layered structure of the dish rather than the specific type of cheese used.
