Perfect Homemade Chicken Parmesan | 2 Million Subscriber Special

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through making the perfect homemade chicken parmesan, inspired by Joshua Weissman's recipe. With crispy chicken, rich sauce, and gooey cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and a great way to celebrate culinary achievements.

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. Gather ingredients:

   • 3 to 4 slices of thick-cut bacon or pancetta
   • 2.5 tablespoons (40 ml) of olive oil
   • 2 red Fresno or Thai chilies, thinly sliced
   • 1 teaspoon (2 g) of red pepper flakes
   • 5 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
   • 1 can (28 oz) of crushed San Marzano tomatoes
   • Salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to taste
   • Optional: Fresh thyme and 1/4 cup of Parmigiano-Reggiano

2. Cook the bacon:

   • Slice bacon into half-inch segments and add to a cold skillet with olive oil.
   • Heat over medium, stirring often until the bacon is crispy.

3. Add flavors:

   • Incorporate sliced chilies, red pepper flakes, and garlic to the skillet.
   • Cook until the garlic is crispy.

4. Make the sauce:

   • Remove solids from the pan, finely chop, and return to the oil.
   • Add crushed tomatoes, season with salt, pepper, and sugar.
   • Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Optional: Add thyme and Parmigiano-Reggiano during simmering.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Gather chicken breasts:

   • Use 4 chicken breasts.

2. Flatten the chicken:

   • Carefully slice each breast in half, but not all the way, to create a butterfly effect.
   • Cover with plastic wrap and pound to about half an inch thick.

3. Set up the breading station:

   • Prepare three bowls:
     • Bowl 1: 2 cups (300 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon (18 g) of kosher salt, and black pepper.
     • Bowl 2: Egg wash made from 4 eggs and a splash of water.
     • Bowl 3: 2 cups (220 g) of panko breadcrumbs.

4. Bread the chicken:

   • Coat each piece in flour, shaking off excess.
   • Dip into the egg wash, ensuring all flour is hydrated.
   • Press into panko breadcrumbs, coating thoroughly.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Prepare the frying pan:

   • Use a 12-inch cast-iron skillet, filling halfway with oil (like canola).
   • Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

2. Fry the chicken:

   • Carefully place chicken into the hot oil, laying away from yourself.
   • Fry for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook until the other side is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
   • Remove and place on a wire rack to cool.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Combine cheeses:

   • Mix 3.5 cups (270 g) of mozzarella and 3/4 cup (70 g) of Parmigiano-Reggiano.

2. Assemble the chicken parmesan:

   • Place fried chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil.
   • Cover each piece with sauce and generously sprinkle the cheese mixture on top.

3. Broil the dish:

   • Place under the broiler for 5 to 8 minutes until cheese is melted, browned, and bubbly.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully made a delicious homemade chicken parmesan! This dish combines crispy chicken, flavorful sauce, and melted cheese for a perfect meal. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven with your favorite sides. For a fun twist, consider adding fresh herbs or spices to customize the dish further. Happy cooking!