The chicken parmesan sandwich is a beloved Italian-American classic that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. This mouth-watering dish 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’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making a chicken parmesan sandwich that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
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. Here are the key elements:
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 a boneless, skinless chicken breast that’s been pounded thin to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be seasoned with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs to give it a boost of flavor.
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
A good marinara sauce is the backbone of a great chicken parmesan sandwich. You can use store-bought sauce, but we recommend making your own using canned crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs. The sauce should be tangy, slightly sweet, and full of flavor.
The Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella cheese is the crowning glory of the chicken parmesan sandwich. You’ll want to use high-quality, fresh mozzarella that’s been sliced into thin rounds. The cheese should be melted to perfection, with a golden-brown crust and a creamy interior.
The Sub Roll
The sub roll is the foundation of the sandwich, providing a soft and crusty base for the chicken, sauce, and cheese. You’ll want to use a high-quality sub roll that’s been lightly toasted to bring out the flavors.
Preparing the Chicken Breast
Now that we’ve covered the anatomy of a chicken parmesan sandwich, it’s time to start preparing the chicken breast. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Pounding the Chicken Breast
To pound the chicken breast, you’ll need a meat mallet or a rolling pin. Place the chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound it to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
Seasoning the Chicken Breast
Once the chicken breast is pounded, it’s time to season it with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. You can use dried oregano, basil, or thyme to give the chicken a Mediterranean flavor.
Dredging the Chicken Breast in Flour
In a shallow dish, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Dredge the chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Creating the Breading Station
The breading station is a critical component of making a chicken parmesan sandwich. Here’s how to set it up:
Preparing the Eggs
In a shallow dish, beat 2 eggs with a fork until they’re well mixed. Add a splash of water to the eggs to thin them out slightly.
Preparing the Breadcrumbs
In a separate shallow dish, mix together 1 cup of breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Breading the Chicken Breast
To bread the chicken breast, dip it in the flour mixture, then the eggs, and finally the breadcrumbs. Make sure the chicken is fully coated in each mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
Frying the Chicken Breast
Now that the chicken breast is breaded, it’s time to fry it. Here’s how:
Heating the Oil
In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
Frying the Chicken Breast
Carefully place the breaded chicken breast in the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
Assembling the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
Now that the chicken breast is fried, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s how:
Toasting the Sub Roll
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the sub roll on a baking sheet and toast it in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s lightly browned.
Spreading the Marinara Sauce
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom half of the sub roll. You can use store-bought sauce or make your own using canned crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs.
Adding the Fried Chicken Breast
Place the fried chicken breast on top of the marinara sauce.
Adding the Mozzarella Cheese
Place a slice or two of mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken breast.
Adding the Top Half of the Sub Roll
Place the top half of the sub roll on the sandwich, pressing down gently.
Baking the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
To melt the cheese and bring the sandwich together, you’ll need to bake it in the oven. Here’s how:
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Baking the Sandwich
Place the sandwich on a baking sheet and bake it in the oven for about 10-15 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
Add a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top of the sandwich for a bright and refreshing flavor.
Adding Some Spice
Add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
Using Different Types of Cheese
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or parmesan, for a unique flavor.
Conclusion
Making a chicken parmesan sandwich is a straightforward process that requires some basic ingredients and cooking techniques. By following this guide, you’ll be able to create a delicious and authentic Italian-American dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. 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 and how does it differ from other chicken sandwiches?
Chicken Parmesan is a popular Italian-American dish that consists of breaded and fried chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It differs from other chicken sandwiches in its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and rich flavors. The combination of crunchy breadcrumbs, savory sauce, and gooey cheese creates a unique taste experience that sets it apart from other chicken sandwiches.
The key to a great Chicken Parmesan sandwich is the quality of its components. Fresh breadcrumbs, homemade marinara sauce, and high-quality mozzarella cheese are essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Additionally, the chicken breast should be pounded thin to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
What type of breadcrumbs should I use for breading the chicken?
For breading the chicken, it’s best to use Panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs made from white bread. Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crisper, which helps to create a crunchier exterior. Regular breadcrumbs can also be used, but they may produce a slightly denser coating. Avoid using whole wheat breadcrumbs or breadcrumbs with herbs and spices, as they can alter the flavor profile of the dish.
When using breadcrumbs, it’s essential to season them with salt and any other desired herbs or spices before breading the chicken. This helps to add flavor to the coating and enhances the overall taste of the dish. You can also mix grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs for an extra burst of flavor.
How do I prevent the breading from falling off the chicken?
To prevent the breading from falling off the chicken, it’s crucial to create a strong bond between the coating and the meat. This can be achieved by dredging the chicken in flour before dipping it in the egg wash and then coating it with breadcrumbs. The flour helps to create a dry surface for the egg wash to adhere to, while the egg wash provides a sticky surface for the breadcrumbs to cling to.
Another tip is to press the breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken to ensure they stick. You can also chill the breaded chicken in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying to help the coating set. When frying, make sure the oil is hot enough to create a crispy exterior quickly, which will help the breading adhere to the chicken.
What type of cheese is best for a Chicken Parmesan sandwich?
Mozzarella cheese is the most traditional and popular choice for a Chicken Parmesan sandwich. Its mild flavor and creamy texture melt beautifully, creating a rich and indulgent sauce. Fresh mozzarella is preferred, as it has a higher moisture content and melts more smoothly than aged mozzarella.
Other types of cheese, such as provolone or parmesan, can also be used, but they may alter the flavor profile of the dish. Provolone has a slightly sweeter and smokier flavor, while parmesan has a nuttier and more pronounced taste. Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to find your perfect match.
Can I bake the Chicken Parmesan sandwich instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the Chicken Parmesan sandwich instead of frying it. Baking is a healthier alternative that produces a crispy exterior and a juicy interior without the need for excess oil. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Then, top it with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese and return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it doesn’t overcook or dry out.
How do I assemble the perfect Chicken Parmesan sandwich?
To assemble the perfect Chicken Parmesan sandwich, start with a crusty sub roll or Italian bread. Slice the bread in half and toast it lightly to create a crispy base. Then, place a few slices of fried or baked chicken on the bread, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of melted mozzarella cheese.
Add some fresh basil leaves or parsley for garnish, and you’re ready to serve. You can also add other toppings, such as sliced ham or salami, to create a more substantial sandwich. The key is to balance the flavors and textures so that each bite is a perfect harmony of crispy, cheesy, and savory.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan sandwiches ahead of time?
While it’s best to serve Chicken Parmesan sandwiches immediately, you can make some components ahead of time to streamline the preparation process. The chicken can be breaded and fried or baked up to a day in advance, then refrigerated or frozen until ready to assemble.
The marinara sauce can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving to ensure the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. Simply reheat the chicken and sauce, then assemble the sandwiches and serve.