When it comes to international cuisine, Italian recipes hold a special place in the hearts of food lovers around the world. One such classic dish that combines the goodness of tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese is the Chicken Parmigiana. And the best part? You can have this delicious meal on your table in less than an hour with just 30 minutes of preparation time.

Let's start with the ingredients. For the chicken, you'll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These are the perfect base for our parmigiana. You'll also require some all - purpose flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. The breading process is crucial as it gives the chicken a crispy exterior. As for the sauce, a good quality marinara sauce is ideal. You can either make your own from scratch using fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs, or opt for a store - bought version if you're short on time.

To begin the preparation, take your chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan to gently pound the chicken until it's about 1/2 inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly and also makes it more tender. Next, set up your breading station. Pour the flour into one shallow dish, the beaten eggs into another, and the breadcrumbs into a third. Roll each pounded chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off, and finally coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumbs.

Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium - high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook each side for about 3 - 4 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Now, it's time to assemble the parmigiana. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the cooked chicken breasts in the dish and top each one with a generous amount of sauce. Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor.

Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 - 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown on top. This step not only melts the cheese but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

While the chicken parmigiana is baking, you can prepare a side dish. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing would be a great accompaniment. You can also serve it with some garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. Once the chicken parmigiana is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to cut.

As you take your first bite of the Chicken Parmigiana, you'll experience a symphony of flavors. The crispy chicken, the tangy marinara sauce, and the creamy melted cheese all come together in perfect harmony. It's a dish that's both comforting and elegant, suitable for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Italian cuisine is known for its simplicity and the use of high - quality ingredients, and this Chicken Parmigiana recipe is no exception. With just a little bit of time and effort, you can recreate this classic Italian dish in your own kitchen and impress your family and friends. So, the next time you're looking for a quick and delicious meal, give this Chicken Parmigiana recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!

Moreover, you can experiment with this recipe to make it your own. For example, you can add some sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce for extra texture and flavor. You can also try using different types of cheese, such as provolone or ricotta, to change up the taste. The possibilities are endless when it comes to cooking and creating your own version of this Italian favorite.

In conclusion, the Chicken Parmigiana is a timeless Italian recipe that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With its relatively short preparation and cooking time, it's a great option for busy individuals or families. So, head to your kitchen, gather the ingredients, and start cooking this wonderful international dish today.