The Irresistible Homemade Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Do you crave a hearty and comforting meal that will satisfy both your hunger and taste buds? Look no further than the irresistible homemade chicken Parmesan recipe. This classic Italian dish features breaded chicken cutlets smothered in tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and cheesy flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress your guests. So, put on your apron and get ready to create a mouthwatering masterpiece in your own kitchen. ️

Introduction to Ree Drummond Chicken Parmesan

Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan recipe has become a household favorite for many food lovers. This delectable dish combines the flavors of tender chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese to create a mouthwatering experience for your taste buds. But where did this irresistible recipe come from, and why has it gained such popularity? Let’s delve into the origins and rise in fame of Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan.

The Story Behind Ree Drummond Chicken Parmesan

Ree Drummond, better known as “The Pioneer Woman,” is a renowned food blogger, chef, and television personality. She rose to fame through her cooking blog, where she shared her love for wholesome, home-cooked meals. One of her most beloved recipes is her chicken parmesan, which she discovered during her culinary adventures.

Fun fact: Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan recipe was inspired by the classic Italian dish, but she put her own unique twist on it to make it even more delicious.

This delectable dish has a rich history that can be traced back to Italy. Chicken parmesan, also known as chicken parmigiana, first gained popularity in the United States among Italian immigrants. It soon became a staple in Italian-American cuisine and captured the hearts and taste buds of people across the nation.

The Rise in Popularity of Ree Drummond Chicken Parmesan

Since Ree Drummond shared her chicken parmesan recipe on her blog, it has skyrocketed in popularity. People from all walks of life have fallen in love with this savory dish and can’t get enough of its mouthwatering flavors.

Remarkable fact: Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan recipe has been featured on various cooking shows and has received rave reviews from renowned chefs and food critics.

The rise of social media and the internet has played a significant role in the widespread fame of Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan. Food enthusiasts everywhere eagerly share their own experiences and adaptations of her recipe, spreading the love for this irresistible dish.

Why People Love Ree Drummond Chicken Parmesan

There are several reasons why people can’t resist Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan. Firstly, the combination of tender chicken, crispy breadcrumbs, and melted cheese creates a perfect harmony of textures. Each bite is a delightful experience for your palate.

Interesting fact: Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan is a versatile dish that can be served as a comforting family dinner or showcased as an impressive entrée for guests. It has the power to elevate any meal occasion.

The robust flavors of the marinara sauce, infused with herbs and spices, add a burst of freshness and tanginess to the dish. This tantalizing sauce complements the savory chicken and cheese, enhancing the overall taste profile.

Insightful fact: Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan is not only incredibly flavorful but also relatively simple to prepare. It’s a recipe that anyone, regardless of their culinary expertise, can master and enjoy.

When it comes to comfort food, Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan ticks all the boxes. It offers a warm, hearty, and satisfying meal that brings people together around the dining table. The dish has the power to evoke feelings of nostalgia and contentment.

In conclusion, Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan has captivated the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts worldwide. Its origins rooted in Italian-American heritage, combined with Ree Drummond’s unique twist, have elevated this dish to culinary stardom. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan is a recipe you won’t be able to resist.

Ingredients for Ree Drummond Chicken Parmesan

Explore the key ingredients needed to make Ree Drummond’s flavorful chicken parmesan.

The Essential Chicken Parmesan Ingredients

When it comes to making Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan, there are a few essential ingredients that you can’t do without. These ingredients provide the foundation for the dish, ensuring that it has the classic flavors and textures that everyone loves.

One of the main ingredients you’ll need is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Make sure to purchase high-quality chicken breasts, as they will make a difference in the final result. The chicken breasts should be pounded to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.

Next, you’ll need breadcrumbs, which add a crispy coating to the chicken. You can either use store-bought breadcrumbs or make your own by pulsing stale bread in a food processor. To enhance the flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs.

The next key ingredient is marinara sauce. You can make your own from scratch using canned crushed tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs, or you can opt for a good-quality store-bought marinara sauce. Choose a marinara sauce that is well-seasoned and has a rich flavor to complement the chicken.

No chicken parmesan is complete without cheese, and for this recipe, you’ll need both mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The mozzarella cheese adds a creamy, gooey texture while the Parmesan cheese provides a nutty and salty flavor to balance the dish.

Other essential ingredients include eggs, which are used to coat the chicken and help the breadcrumbs adhere, and olive oil for frying the chicken to a golden, crispy perfection.

Special Ingredients for Ree Drummond’s Twist

Ree Drummond puts her own twist on the classic chicken parmesan recipe by adding a few special ingredients that take the dish to a whole new level.

One of those special ingredients is fresh basil. Adding a handful of fresh basil leaves to the marinara sauce adds a fragrant and herbaceous note that elevates the flavors of the dish.

Another special ingredient that Ree Drummond uses is crushed red pepper flakes. This adds a subtle kick of heat to the dish, balancing out the richness of the cheese and marinara sauce.

Lastly, Ree Drummond recommends using a combination of Italian-style breadcrumbs and Panko breadcrumbs. The Italian-style breadcrumbs add flavor while the Panko breadcrumbs add extra crunch to the coating of the chicken.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you want to switch things up or don’t have all the ingredients on hand, there are several substitutions and variations you can try for Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan.

Instead of chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs or even pounded thin cuts of veal or pork for a different twist on the dish.

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with eggplant or portobello mushrooms. These vegetables have a meaty texture that works well with the crispy coating and cheesy toppings.

For a gluten-free version, you can replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Additionally, you can experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or fontina, to create unique flavor profiles.

Remember, cooking is all about creativity and personalization, so feel free to make these substitutions and variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Preparing Ree Drummond Chicken Parmesan

When it comes to a delicious homemade chicken parmesan recipe, Ree Drummond’s version is hard to resist. If you are looking for a mouthwatering and satisfying dish to impress your family and friends, this recipe is the answer. With its flavorful marinated chicken, perfectly breaded and fried, and topped with a tantalizing sauce and cheese layering technique, this chicken parmesan will leave everyone begging for seconds.

Marinating and Seasoning the Chicken

The first step in creating Ree Drummond’s irresistible chicken parmesan is marinating and seasoning the chicken. This crucial step ensures that the chicken is packed with flavor and remains tender and juicy throughout the cooking process. To begin, take boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them in a marinade consisting of olive oil, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for maximum flavor, marinate it overnight.

Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the marinade and season it generously with salt and pepper. This extra seasoning adds an extra layer of flavor to the chicken and complements the other ingredients in the dish.

Breading and Frying the Chicken

After marinating and seasoning the chicken, the next step is to bread and fry it to golden perfection. To bread the chicken, you will need a mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it gently to ensure it adheres well.

Once the chicken is breaded, it’s time to fry it. Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil and cook until it is golden brown and crispy on both sides. This frying process adds a delightful crunch to the chicken and enhances its overall texture.

Sauce and Cheese Layering Technique

Now comes the exciting part – creating the sauce and cheese layering technique that takes Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan to a whole new level. For the sauce, combine crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Once the sauce is ready, it’s time to layer it with the breaded and fried chicken. Start by spreading a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the fried chicken pieces on top of the sauce, followed by another layer of sauce. Finally, generously sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. This cheese layering technique creates a gooey, cheesy, and irresistible topping that will make your taste buds sing.

Bake the chicken parmesan in the preheated oven until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. The aroma that will fill your kitchen is simply heavenly. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Now that you know the secrets to preparing Ree Drummond’s irresistible chicken parmesan, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to wow everyone who takes a bite. Get ready to indulge in a dish that combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

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Cooking Methods for Ree Drummond Chicken Parmesan

Discover different cooking methods to achieve the perfect chicken parmesan.

Baking the Chicken Parmesan

Baking is a popular cooking method for chicken parmesan as it allows for even cooking and a deliciously crisp exterior. To bake Ree Drummond chicken parmesan, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method ensures that the chicken is tender and the cheese is perfectly melted, making each bite irresistible.

Broiling for a Crispy Finish

Broiling is another fantastic cooking method that adds a crispy texture to the chicken parmesan. To broil the chicken, place the breaded chicken breasts on a broiler pan or a wire rack set on a baking sheet. Preheat the broiler on high, then place the chicken on the top rack, ensuring it’s about 6 inches away from the heat source. Broil for 4-6 minutes per side or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Broiling gives the chicken a nice charred crust while maintaining a juicy interior.

Air Frying Option for Health-conscious Individuals

For health-conscious individuals, air frying is an excellent alternative to traditional frying. To air fry the chicken parmesan, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden. Air frying requires little to no oil, resulting in a healthier yet equally delicious version of chicken parmesan. ️

In conclusion, there are multiple cooking methods you can use to achieve a mouthwatering Ree Drummond chicken parmesan. Whether you choose to bake it for a tender and cheesy dish, broil it for a crispy finish, or air fry it for a healthier alternative, each method guarantees a satisfying meal. Experiment with different techniques to find your favorite way of preparing this irresistible homemade chicken parmesan recipe. Which cooking method will you try first? ️

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Serving and Pairing Ideas for Ree Drummond Chicken Parmesan

When it comes to serving the irresistible homemade chicken parmesan recipe by Ree Drummond, there are countless possibilities to explore. Whether you want to create a complete meal or simply enhance the flavors of the dish, here are some ideas to inspire you:

Delicious Side Dishes to Accompany Chicken Parmesan

A well-chosen side dish can take Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan to a whole new level. Consider these mouthwatering options:

• Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Pair the rich flavors of chicken parmesan with roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers. The combination of tender chicken and savory veggies is sure to please your taste buds. ️
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes provides the perfect contrast to the crispy chicken and gooey cheese. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
• Fresh Garden Salad: Balance the richness of chicken parmesan with a refreshing salad. Toss together some crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
• Buttery Garlic Bread: Indulge in some warm, buttery garlic bread as a side to your chicken parmesan. The combination of crunchy bread and melted cheese is simply irresistible.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

A great wine or beverage can elevate your dining experience when enjoying Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan. Here are some pairing suggestions:

• Chardonnay: The buttery and oaky notes of a Chardonnay complement the richness of the chicken parmesan. Choose a well-balanced Chardonnay that isn’t overly oaked for the perfect match.
• Italian Red Wine: Opt for a classic Italian red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, to enhance the authentic flavors of the dish. The earthiness and acidity of these wines pair beautifully with the tomato sauce and cheese.
• Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, a tall glass of refreshing iced tea is a great choice. The slight sweetness and coolness of the tea will complement the warmth and richness of the chicken parmesan.

Leftover Ideas and Creative Uses

Don’t let those delicious leftovers go to waste! Get creative with the remaining chicken parmesan for a whole new dining experience:

• Chicken Parmesan Sandwich: Use the leftover chicken parmesan as a filling for a mouthwatering sandwich. Add some fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and a dollop of marinara sauce for an irresistible combination.
• Chicken Parmesan Pizza: Transform your leftovers into a homemade pizza. Spread some marinara sauce on a pizza dough, top it with slices of chicken parmesan, shredded mozzarella cheese, and your favorite toppings. Bake it to perfection and enjoy!
• Chicken Parmesan Salad: Chop up the leftover chicken parmesan and toss it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy dressing. This refreshing salad is perfect for a light and satisfying lunch.
• Chicken Parmesan Pasta: Cook some pasta according to the package instructions, and then toss it with marinara sauce and the leftover chicken parmesan. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil for an easy yet delicious meal.

With these serving and pairing ideas, you can take Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan to new heights and create a memorable dining experience. Whether you decide to incorporate delicious side dishes, select the perfect wine or beverage, or get creative with the leftovers, your taste buds will surely thank you. Enjoy!

For a delicious twist on chicken Parmesan, try this recipe for Ree Drummond’s chicken Parmesan. It’s a savory and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Thank you for taking the time to read about Ree Drummond’s delicious chicken parmesan recipe. We hope you found the article informative and inspiring for your next meal. If you’re looking for more mouthwatering recipes, be sure to visit again later as we frequently update our content with new and exciting dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, we have something for everyone. Stay tuned for more tasty recipes and happy cooking!

Closing Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed learning about Ree Drummond’s chicken parmesan recipe and that it inspires you to get creative in the kitchen. Don’t be afraid to add your own twist to this classic dish and experiment with different flavors. Remember, cooking is all about having fun and nourishing your loved ones. Thank you once again for being a part of our culinary journey, and we look forward to sharing more delicious recipes with you soon. Happy cooking!

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