Chinese-style Chicken Parmigiana

Ingredients

While the original Chicken Parmigiana is typically made with breaded chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese, this Chinese adaptation incorporates the use of sesame chicken, a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. The addition of sesame seeds and a touch of Chinese spices gives this dish a unique flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Chicken Parmigiana, so you can check it out.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500g / 1.1 lb) 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500g / 1.1 lb)
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup (30g) sesame seeds 1/4 cup (30g) sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
• Carbohydrates: 30g (Sugars: 4g)
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, mix together the sesame seeds, Chinese five-spice powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. 4.
   Dip each chicken breast into the flour, then the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. 5.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
6. 6.
   Place the fried chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon tomato sauce over each chicken breast and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken breasts — Pound them slightly to ensure even cooking.
• Sesame seeds — Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
• Tomato sauce — Use a good-quality store-bought sauce or make your own by simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs together.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra crispiness, double coat the chicken breasts by dipping them in the beaten eggs and breadcrumbs twice.
• Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete Chinese meal.
• Customize the spice level by adding chili flakes or hot sauce to the tomato sauce.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist.
• Make sure the chicken breasts are fully cooked by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese-style Chicken Parmigiana hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Accompany it with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Place the Chicken Parmigiana on a serving platter, allowing the melted cheese to ooze over the sides. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a few fresh basil leaves for an appetizing presentation.