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.
The Origins of Chicken Parmesan
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the origins of chicken parmesan. This dish is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century, specifically among Italian-American communities in the Northeast. The name “parmesan” refers to the Italian city of Parma, which is famous for its parmesan cheese. Over time, chicken parmesan has evolved into a distinct culinary entity, with various regional twists and interpretations.
Ingredients and Equipment
To make a chicken parmesan sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 4 sub rolls
- Olive oil for frying
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
In terms of equipment, you’ll need:
- A large skillet or frying pan with at least 1/2-inch deep sides
- A cutting board
- A meat mallet or rolling pin
- A plate or tray for breading the chicken
- A baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- A cheese grater or microplane
- A sharp knife for slicing the mozzarella cheese
Preparing the Chicken Breasts
The first step in making a chicken parmesan sandwich is to prepare the chicken breasts. Rinse the chicken under cold water, pat it dry with paper towels, and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Next, place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper and gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This will help the chicken cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too thick and bulky.
Breading the Chicken Breasts
Now it’s time to bread the chicken breasts. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. In a separate dish, beat the eggs until they’re lightly frothy. In a third dish, place the breadcrumbs.
To bread the chicken, dip each breast in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly. Then, dip the floured chicken in the eggs, making sure to coat it completely. Finally, place the egg-coated chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs gently onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
Tips for Breading the Chicken
- Make sure to use a light hand when breading the chicken, as too much breading can make the chicken taste heavy and greasy.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crisper coating.
- If you want to get fancy, you can add some grated parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Frying the Chicken Breasts
Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Draining and Cooling the Chicken
Once the chicken is fried, remove it from the oil with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let the chicken cool for a few minutes before assembling the sandwiches.
Assembling the Sandwiches
To assemble the sandwiches, preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice the sub rolls in half and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom half of each roll, followed by a slice of fried chicken, a few slices of mozzarella cheese, and finally the top half of the roll.
Melting the Mozzarella Cheese
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for Melting the Mozzarella Cheese
- Use fresh mozzarella cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- If you want to get fancy, you can add some sliced basil leaves on top of the cheese for extra flavor and color.
Serving and Enjoying Your Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches
Once the cheese is melted, remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice the sandwiches in half and serve immediately.
Optional Toppings and Variations
- Add some sliced ham or salami for a salty, savory twist.
- Top the sandwich with some chopped fresh parsley or basil for extra flavor and color.
- Use different types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, for a unique flavor profile.
- Add some sliced hot peppers for an extra kick of heat.
Conclusion
Making a chicken parmesan sandwich is a relatively simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills. By following the steps outlined in this article, 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!
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Italian seasoning | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Breadcrumbs (Panko) | 2 cups |
| Grated parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Marinara sauce | 1 cup |
| Fresh mozzarella cheese | 8 ounces |
| Sub rolls | 4 |
| Olive oil | For frying |
| Fresh basil leaves | For garnish |
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- Bread the chicken breasts with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crisper coating.
- Add some grated parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
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.