So I just gotta share how you can bring Martha Stewart’s chicken parmesan to your own table without a lotta fuss.
As long as you follow my key tips, you’ll have a tasty result you can be proud of.
To start, make sure you pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
also, I always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
What makes this recipe special to me is its balance of crispy and gooey textures, and you’ll have it too!
Don’t forget to serve it over a bed of spaghetti or with a side of garlic bread.
How to Make Martha Stewart Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
- 6 Chicken Cutlets
- 1 cup Basil Leaves
- 2 cups Tomato Sauce
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 4 cups Panko
- 4 tbsp Olive Oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your broiler.
Position the rack about 4 inches from the heat source for optimal broiling.
Step 2:
Sprinkle salt and pepper on each cutlet, ensuring even seasoning.
Lay them out on a baking sheet.
Step 3:
Place basil leaves over each chicken cutlet.
Add a generous amount of tomato sauce on top.
Step 4:
Cover the sauce with mozzarella cheese.
Broil the chicken until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Approximately 2-3 minutes should be enough.
Step 5:
Remove from oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese atop each cutlet.
Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Ingredients:
Always use fresh basil and high-quality cheeses for the best flavor and texture.
This makes a noticeable difference in taste, making your dish stand out.
Even Cutting:
Ensure chicken cutlets are evenly thin to cook uniformly under the broiler.
This avoids undercooked parts that can spoil the dish.
Crispier Finish:
Use a little extra panko if you love extra crunch.
It gives a little more to each bite, making every piece enjoyable.
Stop Oversaucing:
Be generous but don’t overload with sauce, to avoid sogginess.
This keeps your chicken cutlet crispy and perfectly holds the cheese.
Cheese Variety:
Try mixing mozzarella with a little provolone for a slight tang.
This adds a new flavor dimension, making it even more appealing.
What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan
Classic Italian Salad
A classic Italian salad is always a go-to for pairing with chicken parmesan.
The freshness of crisp romaine, sliced tomatoes, and cucumbers aligns beautifully with the rich flavors of the chicken.
Toss your salad with a simple vinaigrette to add a lovely acidic balance to the meal.
Garlic Bread
Who can resist a side of garlic bread with Italian cuisine?
I recommend using a fresh baguette, sliced and spread generously with garlic butter, then toasted to perfection.
The crunchy texture is a nice match alongside the tender chicken parmesan.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
For a twist, how about roasted Brussels sprouts with a hint of balsamic glaze?
Their earthy flavor and slight sweetness bring an exciting contrast to the plate.
Include red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, if you wish.
Corn and Tomato Salad
Consider trying a fresh corn and tomato salad for something unique.
Mix together sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with some lime juice and cilantro.
It’s light and refreshing, making it an unexpected yet delightful partner for your dish.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus can beautifully complement your meal with its subtle smoky flavor.
Simply toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill until tender and slightly charred.
They add an elegant touch without overwhelming the primary flavors.
Parsnip Puree
You might be surprised by how well parsnip puree works as a side.
Its creamy texture and slightly nutty taste make it a unique companion to chicken parmesan.
Cook the parsnips until tender, then blend them with a splash of cream or butter.
Variations and Substitutions
Different Cheese Options
Mozzarella is the classic choice, but you can experiment with provolone or fontina for a unique flavor twist.
If you prefer a sharper taste, try mixing in asiago or pecorino romano along with the Parmesan.
Tomato Sauce Alternatives
Consider using a homemade marinara sauce if you have the time!
You might also try a roasted red pepper sauce for an unexpected flavor profile.
Healthier Coating Choices
For a healthier version, use whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed whole grain crackers.
Another option is using almond flour mixed with Italian herbs for a gluten-free alternative.
Vegetarian Twist
Swap the chicken for large eggplant slices or portobello mushrooms.
These can provide a meaty texture that works well with the other ingredients.
Fresh Herbs
Add fresh basil or oregano for extra aroma and taste.
If you want a brighter flavor, a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top could do the trick!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Parmesan
When you find yourself with leftover Chicken Parmesan, using airtight containers for storage is your best bet!
Place the Chicken Parmesan in a shallow, airtight container to protect it from other food odors in the fridge.
Keep it in the refrigerator for three to four days for the best quality and taste.
If you plan to eat it later, freezing might be a great option.
Airtight Containers
Always use airtight containers to store your Chicken Parmesan leftovers!
This prevents exposure to air and helps retain the delicious flavors.
Look for containers with tight-sealing lids to maintain freshness.
Proper Refrigeration
Refrigerate the Chicken Parmesan within two hours of cooking.
The refrigerator temperature should be set at 4°C (40°F) or below.
Prolong storage beyond four days may risk food spoilage.
Freezing Instructions
Wrap the Chicken Parmesan tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
Once wrapped, label the container with the date for easy tracking.
It can be stored for up to three months, keeping its delicious flavors intact!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Basil
One mistake is skipping the basil, thinking it’s not essential.
Those fresh basil leaves add a wonderful aroma and flavor that really brings everything together.
Be sure to top your cutlets with them before broiling!
Uneven Bread Crust
Another issue is not evenly coating the chicken with breadcrumbs.
When the coating is uneven, parts of the chicken may cook less consistently and not have that perfect crispy texture.
Make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken for a uniform layer.
Using Pre-Packaged Parmesan
Sometimes, using pre-packaged Parmesan can be tempting due to convenience.
Freshly grated Parmesan boasts a much richer and creamier flavor that enhances the entire dish.
Whenever possible, take a few extra minutes to grate your own for maximum taste!
Martha Stewart Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
- 6 Chicken Cutlets
- 1 cup Basil Leaves
- 2 cups Tomato Sauce
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 4 cups Panko
- 4 tbsp Olive Oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your broiler.
- Position the rack about 4 inches from the heat source for optimal broiling.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on each cutlet, ensuring even seasoning.
- Lay them out on a baking sheet.
- Place basil leaves over each chicken cutlet.
- Add a generous amount of tomato sauce on top.
- Cover the sauce with mozzarella cheese.
- Broil the chicken until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Approximately 2-3 minutes should be enough.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese atop each cutlet.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste.