Rae Drummond's Irresistible Chicken Parmesan Recipe

🍲 Note: This blog will guide you through making Rae Drummond's Chicken Parmesan with simple steps. Enjoy creating an Italian classic!

Introduction to Rae Drummond’s Chicken Parmesan

Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden, crispy chicken breast smothered in a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted, bubbly mozzarella cheese. That's exactly what Rae Drummond's Chicken Parmesan delivers! This recipe, known for its simplicity and depth of flavor, brings the warmth and comfort of traditional Italian cooking right to your kitchen. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking to impress your family with a weekday meal, this Chicken Parmesan is sure to delight.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¹⁄₂ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned or plain)
• ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Preparing the Chicken

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare your workspace and ingredients:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally almost through but not entirely, opening them up like a book.
3. Pound the chicken to an even thickness with a meat mallet or rolling pin between two sheets of plastic wrap.
4. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper.

Creating the Breading Station

To achieve the perfect crust, set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:

• Bowl 1: Flour
• Bowl 2: Eggs, beaten
• Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese

Here's how to proceed:

1. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off excess.
2. Dip in the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off.
3. Finally, coat with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing to adhere.

🍽️ Note: Ensure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated to avoid any bare spots during cooking.

Cooking the Chicken

With the chicken prepared, here’s how to cook it:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and starts to bubble.
2. Place the chicken in the skillet, taking care not to overcrowd. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish or directly on a sheet pan if oven-safe.

Assembling the Dish

Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to assemble your Chicken Parmesan:

1. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well covered but not swimming in sauce.
2. Top with shredded mozzarella, allowing some of the sauce to peek through for a gooey finish.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

After baking:

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve immediately, ideally with pasta, garlic bread, or a crisp salad.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Rae Drummond’s approach to Chicken Parmesan. It’s not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating a meal that brings comfort and joy to the table. The combination of crispy, golden chicken with the tangy sweetness of marinara and the melt of cheese provides a harmony of textures and flavors that make this dish irresistible. Whether you’re an experienced cook or trying your hand at Italian cuisine for the first time, this recipe promises a rewarding culinary experience with every bite.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

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It’s recommended to use fresh or thawed chicken for the best results. However, if you’re using frozen chicken, ensure it’s completely thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture which can affect the breading process.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

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Swap out the chicken for thick slices of eggplant or tofu for a vegetarian twist on this classic dish. Follow the same breading and cooking techniques, adjusting the cooking times for the vegetarian substitute.

What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?

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Chicken Parmesan pairs wonderfully with pasta like spaghetti or linguine, garlic bread, and a side salad. For a more authentic experience, try serving with creamy polenta or sautéed greens like spinach or kale.

Can I prepare Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

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Yes, you can bread the chicken and keep it refrigerated for up to a day before cooking. Assemble the dish, cover, and bake when ready to serve. However, fresh preparation yields the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

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To reheat, place the Chicken Parmesan in a covered dish to retain moisture and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also use a skillet with a lid on low heat to gently warm up the dish without losing its crispy exterior.