Chicken Parmesan
Breaded chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, served over pasta.
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.
Chicken Parmesan, as we know it, is an Italian-American creation that emerged in the early 20th century. It's believed to be inspired by earlier Italian dishes like eggplant parmesan (melanzane alla parmigiana), which dates back much further. Italian immigrants adapted these dishes using more readily available and affordable ingredients like chicken cutlets.
Chicken Parmesan is a comfort food staple, often associated with family gatherings and casual dining experiences. It's a dish that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia.
Italian-American Identity
Chicken Parmesan represents the Italian-American culinary identity, showcasing how immigrant communities adapted their traditions to new environments and available resources.
Sunday Supper Staple
It is often a dish served during Sunday suppers, a tradition that emphasizes family and togetherness.
Restaurant Favorite
Chicken Parmesan is a popular item on many restaurant menus in North America, from casual diners to upscale Italian eateries.
The dish is a symphony of savory, acidic, and rich flavors, balanced by the umami depth of cheese and tomato.
The crispy chicken breast provides a satisfying textural contrast to the soft pasta and melted cheese. The San Marzano tomato sauce offers a vibrant acidity and sweetness. Provolone lends a creamy, mild flavor, while Parmigiano-Reggiano contributes a sharp, nutty, and savory element. Roasted mushrooms add an earthy umami note to the spaghetti, complementing the chicken and cheese. Garlic toast provides a pungent, crispy accompaniment.
Quality Ingredients
Using high-quality San Marzano tomatoes, fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano, and good quality chicken breast will significantly impact the flavor of the dish.
Crispy Chicken
Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated in breadcrumbs and fried to a golden brown for maximum crispness.
Don't Overcook the Pasta
Cook the spaghetti al dente to provide a pleasing textural contrast to the softer chicken and cheese.
Proper layering
Layering is important, Start with the pasta, the chicken, the sauce and then the cheese for the ultimate flavor!
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