Parmegiana de Frango
File de frango empanado, coberto com molho de tomate e queijo mussarela, acompanha arroz e fritas.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
The Parmegiana dish, generally made with eggplant or beef, has its roots in Italian immigration to Brazil, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Italian immigrants adapted their traditional recipes using locally available ingredients, leading to variations like Parmegiana de Frango (chicken parmigiana). The dish reflects a blending of Italian culinary techniques with Brazilian ingredients and preferences.
Parmegiana de Frango is a beloved comfort food in Brazil, often enjoyed in family meals and restaurants. It's considered a relatively simple and accessible dish, widely available and appreciated by people of all ages and social backgrounds.
Family Meals
Parmegiana de Frango is frequently prepared and enjoyed during family gatherings. Its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor make it a popular choice for Sunday lunches and special occasions.
Restaurant Staple
The dish is a ubiquitous menu item in Brazilian restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to more upscale establishments. It's often a go-to option for those seeking a familiar and satisfying meal.
Variations
While the standard version includes rice and french fries, regional variations and personal preferences can influence the side dishes. Some may prefer mashed potatoes, salad, or other accompaniments.
Parmegiana de Frango offers a satisfying combination of savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors. The crispy fried chicken provides a textural contrast to the rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella.
The primary flavor profile is built on the crispy, savory fried chicken cutlet (file de frango empanado), which offers a slightly salty and umami base. This is then coated with a vibrant and slightly acidic tomato sauce (molho de tomate), typically seasoned with garlic, onions, and herbs like basil or oregano. The melted mozzarella cheese adds a creamy, milky richness that complements the sauce and chicken. The dish is commonly served with rice and french fries, adding neutral and starchy elements to balance the overall flavor profile. The acidity of the tomato sauce helps cut through the richness of the cheese and fried chicken.
Crispy Chicken Coating
For a truly crispy chicken, double-dip the cutlets in the egg and breadcrumb mixture. Ensure the breadcrumbs are finely ground and well-seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices like garlic powder or paprika.
Homemade Tomato Sauce
Using a homemade tomato sauce significantly enhances the dish's flavor. Simmering fresh tomatoes with garlic, onions, and herbs will create a richer and more complex sauce than store-bought versions. Adding a touch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Cheese Quality
Opt for high-quality mozzarella cheese that melts well and has a good flavor. Fresh mozzarella, while more expensive, can add a superior creamy texture to the dish. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains cellulose, which can hinder melting.
Baking Time
Do not overbake, the objective is to melt the cheese and warm the whole thing up
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