Chicken parmesan
Chicken Parmesan (also called Chicken Parmigiana) is a popular Italian-American dish that consists of breaded chicken breast covered in tomato sauce and melted cheese. It is often served with pasta or on a sandwich.
History[edit]
The origins of Chicken Parmesan can be traced back to Italian immigrants in the United States. The dish is believed to be a variation of Eggplant Parmesan, which is a traditional Italian dish. The adaptation to use chicken instead of eggplant likely occurred in the mid-20th century as Italian-American cuisine evolved.
Ingredients[edit]
The main ingredients of Chicken Parmesan include:
- Chicken breast
- Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Tomato sauce
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Basil
- Oregano
Preparation[edit]
The preparation of Chicken Parmesan involves several steps: 1. **Bread the Chicken**: The chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness, then coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. 2. **Fry the Chicken**: The breaded chicken is fried in olive oil until golden brown and crispy. 3. **Bake with Sauce and Cheese**: The fried chicken is placed in a baking dish, covered with tomato sauce, and topped with mozzarella cheese. It is then baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving[edit]
Chicken Parmesan is typically served with a side of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine. It can also be served on a sandwich, often referred to as a Chicken Parmesan sub or hoagie.
Variations[edit]
There are several variations of Chicken Parmesan, including:
- **Chicken Parmigiana alla Vodka**: A version that uses vodka sauce instead of traditional tomato sauce.
- **Chicken Parmesan Casserole**: A baked casserole version that includes pasta and additional ingredients like vegetables.
- **Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan**: Made with gluten-free breadcrumbs for those with dietary restrictions.