# Golden, Cheesy, Indulgently Crispy Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan is a cherished Italian-American meal that merges crispy fried chicken cutlets, luscious tomato sauce, and melty cheese. This recipe enhances the traditional dish with a homemade San Marzano tomato sauce, simple fried cutlets, and an ample layer of bubbling cheese.
## Why This Recipe Shines
Drawing inspiration from the popular chicken parmesan alla vodka at Carbonara restaurant, this rendition embodies the spirit of indulgence. The striking presentation, where molten cheese and sauce cascade over crispy chicken, makes it a highlight for any dinner table. Serve it alongside garlic bread and a crisp salad for a complete dining experience that is bound to impress.
## Ingredients
### For the Crispy Chicken:
– Chicken breasts, flattened
– Salt and pepper
– Flour
– Eggs
– Panko breadcrumbs
### For the San Marzano Tomato Sauce:
– Olive oil
– Shallots
– Tomato paste
– San Marzano crushed tomatoes
– Salt
### For the Cheesy Top Layer:
– Mozzarella cheese
– Parmesan cheese
### Optional Extras:
– Fresh basil for decoration
– Red pepper flakes for extra spice
## Instructions
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Arrange three bowls for dredging: one with flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with a blend of panko and breadcrumbs, all seasoned lightly with salt.
2. **Coat the Chicken:** Dredge each chicken breast in flour, removing excess. Dip in the egg, then press into the panko mixture for an even coating.
3. **Fry the Chicken:** Heat a shallow amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken for several minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature should hit 165°F).
4. **Prepare the Sauce:** In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium. Sauté shallots for 3-4 minutes, then add tomato paste and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Incorporate the San Marzano tomatoes and salt, simmering for 15-20 minutes.
5. **Broil the Cheese:** Preheat the broiler. Transfer some of the sauce to an oven-safe pan, top with mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Broil for 4-5 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
6. **Serve:** Carefully tilt the pan to pour the cheese and sauce over the fried chicken. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and paired with garlic bread and salad.
## Tips for Success
– Make sure the cheese does not make contact with the sides of the pan while broiling to avoid sticking.
– For a lighter version, try air frying the chicken instead of deep frying.
## Conclusion
This golden, cheesy, indulgently crispy chicken parmesan presents a delightful variation of a classic dish. With its rich tastes and satisfying textures, it’s ideal for a cozy dinner or a special event. Enjoy crafting this dish and relish the scrumptious results!