The chicken parm sandwich is a beloved Italian-American dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. This mouth-watering sandwich consists of a crispy breaded chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, all nestled between a soft, crusty sub roll. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making a chicken parm sandwich that will make your taste buds sing.
Understanding the Components of a Chicken Parm Sandwich
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the components that make up a classic chicken parm sandwich. The three main elements are:
- Breaded and fried chicken breast
- Marinara sauce
- Melted mozzarella cheese
Each of these components plays a crucial role in creating the perfect chicken parm sandwich. In the following sections, we will explore each component in detail and provide tips on how to prepare them.
The Breaded and Fried Chicken Breast
The breaded and fried chicken breast is the star of the show in a chicken parm sandwich. To make the perfect breaded chicken breast, you will 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)
- 2 eggs
- Olive oil for frying
To prepare the breaded chicken breast, follow these steps:
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- In a separate dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third dish, place the breadcrumbs.
- Dip each chicken breast in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Dip the flour-coated chicken breast in the eggs, making sure to coat completely.
- Finally, dip the egg-coated chicken breast in the breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the breaded chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
Tips for Making the Perfect Breaded Chicken Breast
- Make sure to use high-quality breadcrumbs, such as Panko, for a lighter and crisper coating.
- Don’t overcoat the chicken breast with breadcrumbs, as this can make the coating heavy and greasy.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature (about 350°F) for frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy or undercooked chicken.
The Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce is a crucial component of a chicken parm sandwich, adding a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish. To make a simple marinara sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
To prepare the marinara sauce, follow these steps:
- Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips for Making the Perfect Marinara Sauce
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes, such as San Marzano, for a richer and more complex flavor.
- Don’t overcook the sauce, as this can result in a thick and bitter flavor.
- Use a mixture of dried and fresh herbs, such as oregano and basil, for a more complex flavor profile.
The Melted Mozzarella Cheese
Melted mozzarella cheese is the final component of a chicken parm sandwich, adding a creamy and indulgent texture to the dish. To melt the mozzarella cheese, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
To melt the mozzarella cheese, follow these steps:
- Preheat the broiler.
- Place the slices of mozzarella cheese on top of the breaded chicken breast.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the cheese.
- Place the chicken breast under the broiler and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Melting the Mozzarella Cheese
- Use high-quality mozzarella cheese, such as fresh or buffalo mozzarella, for a creamier and more flavorful texture.
- Don’t overcook the cheese, as this can result in a dry and rubbery texture.
- Use a broiler or toaster oven to melt the cheese, as this can result in a more even and crispy texture.
Assembling the Chicken Parm Sandwich
Now that we have prepared the components of the chicken parm sandwich, it’s time to assemble the dish. To assemble the sandwich, follow these steps:
- Slice the breaded chicken breast in half.
- Place the sliced chicken breast on a sub roll.
- Spoon the marinara sauce over the chicken breast.
- Top the sauce with a slice of melted mozzarella cheese.
- Place the other half of the sub roll on top of the cheese.
Tips for Assembling the Chicken Parm Sandwich
- Use a crusty sub roll, such as a Italian or French bread, for a more authentic texture.
- Don’t overfill the sandwich, as this can result in a messy and overwhelming flavor.
- Use a serrated knife to slice the chicken breast and sub roll, as this can result in a more even and clean cut.
Conclusion
Making a chicken parm sandwich is a simple yet rewarding process that requires attention to detail and a passion for Italian-American cuisine. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and authentic chicken parm sandwich that will impress your friends and family. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh mozzarella cheese and San Marzano tomatoes, and to pay attention to the cooking time and temperature to ensure a crispy and golden-brown coating. With practice and patience, you can become a master of the chicken parm sandwich and create a dish that will be remembered for years to come.
Additional Tips and Variations
- To add some extra flavor to the chicken parm sandwich, try adding some sliced ham or salami to the sandwich.
- To make the sandwich more substantial, try adding some sautéed spinach or broccoli to the sandwich.
- To make the sandwich more indulgent, try adding some sliced prosciutto or pancetta to the sandwich.
- To make the sandwich more spicy, try adding some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sandwich.
By following these tips and variations, you can create a unique and delicious chicken parm sandwich that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family.
What is a Chicken Parm Sandwich?
A Chicken Parm 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 Parm Sandwich are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century, possibly in Italian-American communities in the Northeast. Regardless of its origins, the Chicken Parm Sandwich has become a beloved dish in many parts of the world.
What type of bread is best for a Chicken Parm Sandwich?
The best type of bread for a Chicken Parm Sandwich is a crusty sub roll, preferably made from Italian bread. The crusty exterior and soft interior of the bread provide a perfect contrast in texture to the crispy chicken and gooey cheese. Look for a bread that is lightly toasted or grilled to add extra flavor and crunch.
Some popular options for bread include Ciabatta, Focaccia, or a classic Italian sub roll. Avoid using a dense or heavy bread, as it can overpower the other flavors in the sandwich. You can also try using a garlic bread or a bread infused with herbs for added flavor.
How do I bread the chicken for a Chicken Parm Sandwich?
To bread the chicken for a Chicken Parm Sandwich, you will need to prepare a breading station with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Start by seasoning the flour with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Dip the chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it in the eggs, making sure to coat it completely.
Finally, roll the chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor. Make sure to bread the chicken evenly and not too heavily, as this can make the sandwich overwhelming.
What type of cheese is best for a Chicken Parm Sandwich?
The best type of cheese for a Chicken Parm Sandwich is mozzarella, preferably fresh or buffalo mozzarella. Mozzarella has a mild flavor and a creamy texture that melts perfectly and adds a richness to the sandwich. You can also use a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Avoid using a strong or pungent cheese, as it can overpower the other flavors in the sandwich. Some other options for cheese include provolone or ricotta, but mozzarella is the classic choice for a Chicken Parm Sandwich. Make sure to slice the cheese thinly and evenly, so it melts properly and doesn’t overwhelm the sandwich.
How do I assemble a Chicken Parm Sandwich?
To assemble a Chicken Parm Sandwich, start by placing a breaded and fried chicken breast on the bottom half of the sub roll. Spoon some marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure to cover it evenly. Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Place the top half of the sub roll on the sandwich and serve immediately. You can also add some chopped parsley or basil for garnish, or a side of pasta or garlic knots for a complete meal. Make sure to assemble the sandwich just before serving, as the cheese will melt and the bread will get soggy if it sits for too long.
Can I make a Chicken Parm Sandwich in advance?
While it’s possible to make some components of a Chicken Parm Sandwich in advance, it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving. The breaded and fried chicken can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen, but it’s best to fry it just before serving for maximum crispiness.
The marinara sauce and cheese can also be made ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving to ensure the cheese melts properly and the bread stays crispy. If you need to make the sandwich in advance, consider assembling it without the cheese and then adding the cheese just before serving.
How do I store leftover Chicken Parm Sandwiches?
To store leftover Chicken Parm Sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the sandwiches for up to 2 months, but make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
When reheating the sandwiches, place them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. You can also reheat the sandwiches in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the cheese or bread.