Pepperoni Infused Chicken Parmesan

Why you’ll love it

Welcome to a mouthwatering journey where two Italian-American favorites merge into one irresistible dish—Pepperoni Infused Chicken Parmesan. Imagine the tender, juicy chicken cutlets breaded with a crispy, flavorful pepperoni-infused panko crust, topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This dish takes a beloved classic to new heights, introducing an unexpected twist with the bold, spicy flavors of pepperoni.

Chicken Parmesan, or Chicken Parmigiana, is a popular Italian-American dish with roots tracing back to Southern Italy. It is derived from Melanzane alla Parmigiana (Eggplant Parmesan), a traditional Italian recipe featuring breaded and fried eggplant slices layered with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Italian immigrants in America adapted this recipe by substituting eggplant with chicken cutlets, leading to the creation of Chicken Parmesan in the early 20th century. Over the years, Chicken Parmesan has become a staple in Italian-American cuisine, celebrated for its comforting combination of crunchy breading, savory tomato sauce, and melted cheese. By infusing it with pepperoni, we’re bringing another beloved pizza topping into the mix for an even more delicious twist!

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Whats needed

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 stick (about 6 oz) pepperoni
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 cups marinara sauce (check out our recipe here!)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Getting Started

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.

Step 2: Process and Render the Pepperoni

In a food processor, blend the pepperoni stick until ground. Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add the ground pepperoni. Cook the pepperoni, stirring occasionally, until the fat renders out and it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix with Panko Breadcrumbs

In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the rendered pepperoni and its fat. Stir well to ensure the pepperoni is evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs, infusing them with its rich flavor.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Set up a breading station with two shallow plates. In the first plate, place the all-purpose flour and egg. In the second plate add the pepperoni-infused panko breadcrumb mixture. Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the egg mixture, and finally coat it with the pepperoni-infused panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the breaded chicken cutlets to the skillet, frying them until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the fried cutlets to a wire rack to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

In a baking dish, place the fried chicken cutlets on a wire rack. Spoon more marinara sauce over each cutlet, then lay sliced mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Sprinkle dried oregano and dried basil evenly over the cheese. Add a bit of the reserved pepperoni as well.

Bake the assembled dish in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The chicken should be cooked through, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve your Pepperoni Infused Chicken Parmesan hot with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad.

Final Thoughts

This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or any occasion when you want to impress with a unique and delicious meal. The preparation is straightforward, and the results are guaranteed to wow everyone at the table.

Pepperoni Infused Chicken Parmesan is not just a dish; it’s an experience. It brings together the comforting elements of Italian-American cuisine with an innovative twist that amplifies its flavors and appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a home chef looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

The crispy, pepperoni-infused panko breading, combined with the juicy chicken and decadent cheese, makes this dish a standout star on any dinner menu. Don’t forget to share this culinary masterpiece with your loved ones and spread the joy of Pepperoni Infused Chicken Parmesan!