### Golden, Cheesy, Exceedingly Crispy Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan is an adored Italian-American recipe that features crunchy fried chicken cutlets, flavorful tomato sauce, and stretchy melted cheese. This version enhances the traditional recipe with a homemade San Marzano tomato sauce, delivering a flavor explosion in each bite. The outcome is a golden, cheesy, and absolutely scrumptious dish that suits any occasion.
#### Ingredients
**Crispy Chicken:**
– Chicken breasts, flattened
– Salt and pepper
– Flour
– Eggs
– Panko breadcrumbs
**San Marzano Tomato Sauce:**
– Olive oil
– Shallots
– Tomato paste
– San Marzano crushed tomatoes
– Salt
**Cheesy Top Layer:**
– Mozzarella cheese
– Parmesan cheese
**Optional Extras:**
– Fresh basil for garnish
– Garlic bread and salad for serving
#### Instructions
1. **Prep the Chicken:** Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a blend of panko and breadcrumbs, each seasoned with a pinch of salt.
2. **Coat the Chicken:** Dip each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off any excess. Then, immerse in the egg, and press into the panko mixture to coat completely.
3. **Fry the Chicken:** Heat a shallow layer of oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets and fry for a few minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (minimum internal temperature of 165°F).
4. **Make the Sauce:** In a large pot, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped shallots and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Introduce the San Marzano tomatoes and salt, then let simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. **Broil the Cheese:** Preheat the broiler. Pour about 3/4 cup of sauce into a small oven-safe dish. Add a layer of mozzarella on top and sprinkle with Parmesan. Broil for 4-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
6. **Serve:** Carefully tilt the dish over the fried chicken on a plate, letting the sauce and melted cheese flow over the top. Serve immediately with garlic bread and a fresh salad.
#### Tips for Success
– Make sure the cheese does not touch the edges of the dish to avoid sticking.
– For a healthier alternative, consider air frying the chicken cutlets at 375°F for 6-9 minutes.
#### Conclusion
This crispy chicken parmesan recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The blend of crunchy chicken, rich sauce, and melted cheese comes together to create a comforting dish that is certain to impress. Pair it with garlic bread and a salad for a complete Italian feast. Savor the delightful flavors and the joy of preparing this classic dish at home!