Chicken parmesan sandwich, a classic Italian-American dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. This mouth-watering sandwich consists of a crispy breaded chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, all nestled between a soft and crusty sub roll. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making the perfect chicken parmesan sandwich, from preparing the ingredients to cooking the chicken and assembling the sandwich.
Understanding the Anatomy of a Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
Before we dive into the recipe, it’s essential to understand the components that make up a great chicken parmesan sandwich. The following are the key elements that you should focus on:
The Chicken Breast
The chicken breast is the star of the show, and it’s crucial to prepare it correctly. You’ll want to use fresh and high-quality chicken breasts, preferably boneless and skinless. The chicken should be pounded thin to ensure even cooking and to prevent it from becoming too thick and overwhelming.
The Breading Station
The breading station is where the magic happens. You’ll need three shallow dishes: one for flour, one for eggs, and one for breadcrumbs. The flour helps to dry the chicken, the eggs provide moisture and richness, and the breadcrumbs add crunch and texture.
The Marinara Sauce
The marinara sauce is the glue that holds the sandwich together. You can use store-bought sauce, but homemade sauce is always better. The sauce should be tangy, slightly sweet, and full of flavor.
The Mozzarella Cheese
The mozzarella cheese is the crowning glory of the sandwich. You’ll want to use high-quality mozzarella that melts well and has a creamy texture.
The Sub Roll
The sub roll is the foundation of the sandwich. You’ll want to use a crusty and soft roll that can hold all the fillings without getting soggy.
Preparing the Ingredients
Now that we’ve covered the anatomy of a chicken parmesan sandwich, it’s time to prepare the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 4 |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Marinara sauce | 1 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Sub rolls | 4 |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Pounding the Chicken Breasts
To pound the chicken breasts, you’ll need a meat mallet or a rolling pin. Place the chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound it until it reaches a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
Preparing the Breading Station
To prepare the breading station, you’ll need to set up three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour and season it with salt and pepper. In the second dish, beat the eggs and add a splash of water. In the third dish, place the breadcrumbs and season them with salt and pepper.
Preparing the Marinara Sauce
To prepare the marinara sauce, you can use a store-bought sauce or make your own. If you’re making your own sauce, you’ll need to combine canned crushed tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking the Chicken
Now that the ingredients are prepared, it’s time to cook the chicken. Here’s how:
Breading the Chicken
To bread the chicken, you’ll need to dip each breast in the flour, then the eggs, and finally the breadcrumbs. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly and gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
Frying the Chicken
To fry the chicken, you’ll need to heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
Baking the Chicken
To bake the chicken, you’ll need to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and golden brown.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that the chicken is cooked, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s how:
Toasting the Sub Roll
To toast the sub roll, you’ll need to place it in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s lightly toasted.
Assembling the Sandwich
To assemble the sandwich, you’ll need to place a cooked chicken breast on the sub roll, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Place the sub roll under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your chicken parmesan sandwich to the next level:
Using Fresh Basil
Adding fresh basil leaves to the sandwich can add a bright and refreshing flavor. Simply place a few leaves on top of the chicken breast before adding the marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Using Different Types of Cheese
While mozzarella cheese is the classic choice for chicken parmesan, you can also use other types of cheese such as provolone, parmesan, or even a combination of cheeses.
Adding Some Spice
Adding some red pepper flakes or sliced hot peppers can add a spicy kick to the sandwich.
Conclusion
Making a chicken parmesan sandwich is a straightforward process that requires some basic ingredients and cooking techniques. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and authentic Italian-American dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the ooey-gooey cheesy goodness of a perfectly made chicken parmesan sandwich!
What is Chicken Parmesan Sandwich?
A Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is a popular Italian-American dish that consists of a breaded and fried chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, served on a crusty sub roll. The combination of crispy chicken, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
The origins of the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century, as an adaptation of the traditional Italian dish, Parmigiana di Melanzane, which features breaded and fried eggplant instead of chicken.
What type of cheese is best for Chicken Parmesan Sandwich?
Mozzarella cheese is the most commonly used cheese for Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, and for good reason. Its mild flavor and creamy texture melt perfectly, adding a rich and velvety element to the dish. Fresh mozzarella is ideal, as it has a higher moisture content than aged mozzarella, which makes it melt more smoothly.
Other types of cheese, such as provolone or parmesan, can also be used, but mozzarella remains the most popular choice. It’s worth noting that a combination of mozzarella and parmesan can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish, as the salty, nutty flavor of parmesan complements the sweetness of the mozzarella.
How do I bread the chicken for Chicken Parmesan Sandwich?
Breading the chicken is a crucial step in making a great Chicken Parmesan Sandwich. To do it, start by seasoning the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. Then, dip the chicken in beaten eggs, making sure to coat it completely. Finally, coat the chicken in a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
It’s essential to use the right type of breadcrumbs for the job. Panko breadcrumbs are a popular choice, as they are light and crispy, and produce a delicate crust on the chicken. You can also use regular breadcrumbs, but be sure to season them with salt and herbs to add extra flavor.
What is the best way to fry the chicken for Chicken Parmesan Sandwich?
Frying the chicken is a critical step in making a crispy and delicious Chicken Parmesan Sandwich. To do it, heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breast and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and crispy.
It’s essential to not overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy or undercooked chicken. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary, and be sure to drain it on paper towels to remove excess oil. You can also bake the chicken instead of frying it, but frying produces a crisper crust.
How do I assemble the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich?
Assembling the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is the final step in making this delicious dish. To do it, start by spreading a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom half of a sub roll. Then, add a few slices of melted mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce. Next, add the fried chicken breast, and finally, top it with more marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Be sure to use a crusty sub roll that can hold up to the juicy chicken and sauce. You can also add some chopped parsley or basil on top of the sandwich for extra flavor and color. Finally, serve the sandwich hot and enjoy!
Can I make Chicken Parmesan Sandwich ahead of time?
While it’s best to make the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich fresh, you can make some components ahead of time to save time during assembly. For example, you can bread and fry the chicken breast up to a day in advance, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the sandwich.
You can also make the marinara sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving, as the cheese and sauce can make the bread soggy if it sits for too long.
Can I customize the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich to my taste?
One of the best things about the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is that it can be customized to your taste. For example, you can add some chopped ham or pepperoni to the sandwich for extra flavor. You can also use different types of cheese, such as provolone or gorgonzola, to give the sandwich a unique twist.
Additionally, you can add some sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the sandwich for extra nutrition and flavor. Finally, you can serve the sandwich with a side of pasta or a green salad for a more filling meal. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make the sandwich your own!