Grilled chicken Parmesan isn’t just a dish; it’s a journey. A journey that traverses continents, blending the rustic charm of Italian cuisine with the bold flavors of global gastronomy. This recipe is a testament to the power of culinary fusion, a celebration of diverse cultures coming together on a single plate.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/2-inch thickness
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil leaves
Pasta (optional)
Preparation Process:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture.
In another shallow dish, whisk together the beaten egg. Dip the floured chicken breasts into the egg, then coat them with the breadcrumb mixture.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until thickened.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the grilled chicken breasts in a baking dish. Top each breast with a generous amount of marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve:
Serve the Grilled Chicken Parmesan immediately, topped with fresh basil leaves. Pair it with a side of pasta, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
This dish is a harmonious blend of Italian and American culinary traditions. The Italian influence is evident in the rich marinara sauce and the use of Parmesan cheese. The American twist comes from the grilling technique, which adds a smoky flavor to the chicken.
Each bite of this Grilled Chicken Parmesan is a journey through time and space, a celebration of the global culinary heritage. It’s a dish that brings people together, fostering a sense of community through the shared experience of food.
