Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls
Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls are a delicious twist on the classic chicken Parmesan. Filled with gooey mozzarella, coated in crispy breadcrumbs, and topped with marinara sauce, this dish is perfect for a family meal or a special occasion.
INGREDIENTS
- 4 chicken breasts (thinly sliced): These form the base of the dish and are rolled with mozzarella cheese.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken to bring out the flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Used to coat the chicken for frying, creating a base for the breadcrumbs to stick.
- 2 eggs (beaten): Help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken, giving it a golden and crispy finish.
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs: These give the chicken rolls a light and crispy coating when fried.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds extra flavor to the breadcrumb coating for a richer taste.
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese: The mozzarella melts inside the chicken rolls, creating a cheesy, gooey center.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Used to bake the chicken rolls, adding a rich and savory tomato flavor.
- Olive oil: Used for frying the chicken rolls to golden brown perfection.
- Fresh basil (chopped): Adds a bright, fresh garnish that complements the cheesy, savory dish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. Set up a dredging station with three shallow dishes: one for flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Step 2:
- Coat each chicken slice first in flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s completely covered for a crispy texture.
- Step 3:
- Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each breaded chicken piece. Roll the chicken tightly around the mozzarella, and secure the rolls with a toothpick if needed to keep them together during cooking.
- Step 4:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry each chicken roll until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Step 5:
- Pour half of the marinara sauce into a baking dish. Place the fried chicken rolls into the dish, and top them with the remaining sauce. Add any leftover mozzarella slices on top of the rolls for extra cheesiness.
- Step 6:
- Bake the chicken rolls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Step 7:
- Garnish the baked chicken rolls with chopped fresh basil and serve hot. These crispy chicken rolls pair perfectly with a side of pasta or a fresh salad.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve these Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls hot, topped with fresh basil and extra marinara sauce on the side. They pair wonderfully with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad.
- To store leftovers, place the chicken rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture, rather than using the microwave.
Helpful Notes
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can broil the chicken rolls for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to give the breadcrumbs a golden, crispy finish.
- To save time, you can use store-bought marinara sauce, but homemade sauce will add an extra layer of flavor to this dish.
- Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests ensuring your oil is hot enough before frying the chicken rolls to avoid sogginess and ensure a crisp, golden exterior.
- Chef Rachael Ray recommends letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite.