Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved classic that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy tomato sauce, fresh spinach, and savory Parmesan cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for a hearty dinner and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a simple salad. Let’s dive into this delicious Chicken Parmesan recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 medium onion, minced
• 1 small jar sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts on both sides with oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Flatten Chicken (Optional):
   • For more even cooking, you can flatten the chicken breasts slightly using a meat mallet. Place the chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound to an even thickness.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat Butter:
   • In a large skillet, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
2. Cook Chicken:
   • Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
   • In the same skillet, add the minced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
   • Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Add Cream and Broth:
   • Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Spinach and Parmesan:
   • Stir in the fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Return Chicken:
   • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
2. Simmer:
   • Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and well-coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the Chicken Parmesan hot, with the creamy tomato sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with your favorite side!

Cooking Notes and Tips

• Chicken: For a quicker option, you can use thinly sliced chicken breasts or chicken tenders.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. If using dry-packed, rehydrate them in hot water before chopping.
• Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will provide the best flavor. Avoid using pre-grated Parmesan as it may not melt as well.

Variations

Spicy Chicken Parmesan

• Add Heat:
  • Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Mushroom Chicken Parmesan

• Add Mushrooms:
  • Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions for added flavor and texture.

Cheesy Chicken Parmesan

• Add Mozzarella:
  • Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella cheese before returning to the skillet for a melty, cheesy topping.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

• With Pasta:
  • Serve over a bed of pasta such as spaghetti or fettuccine for a classic pairing.
• With Rice:
  • Pair with steamed rice or a flavorful rice pilaf.

Beverages

• With White Wine:
  • Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
• With Sparkling Water:
  • Serve with sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing drink.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and chicken separately and combine them just before serving.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the skillet or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of chicken? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if preferred. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free? A: You can substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Q: Can I add other vegetables? A: Yes, you can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the sauce for added variety.

Chicken Parmesan is a classic and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, fresh spinach, and savory Parmesan cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this meal is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Chicken Parmesan with your family and friends!