Chicken breast with parmesan

Chicken Breast with Parmesan - A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

When it comes to cooking, often less means more. This is the philosophy behind our recipe today - a simple yet flavorful chicken breast with parmesan. This dish is perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner, ideal for busy days or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

A Brief History

Chicken breast has become a popular ingredient in global cuisine due to its versatility. Whether grilled, fried, or baked, chicken can be adapted to a variety of culinary styles. Parmesan, with its intense flavor and fine texture, adds a touch of refinement to this simple dish. The combination of these two ingredients has created a recipe that is loved worldwide and remains a favorite every time.

Ingredients

- 2 chicken breasts (approximately 300-400 g)
- 50 g grated parmesan
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- A green salad (lettuce, radishes, bell pepper, feta)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Chicken Breast
Start by slicing each chicken breast in half to create two thinner pieces. This will not only reduce cooking time but also make the meat juicier. Lightly score the surface of the chicken breast to allow the seasonings to penetrate better.

2. Seasoning
Sprinkle salt, pepper, and thyme on both sides of the chicken breast. Thyme is an excellent choice as it adds a fragrant and fresh note. If you wish, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano to give the dish a personalized touch.

3. Cooking in a Pan
In a large skillet, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Wait until the oil is hot but not smoking. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and let them brown for about 5-6 minutes on each side. We recommend not overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook in two batches.

4. Covering
Once the chicken breast is browned on both sides, cover the skillet with a lid. This step is essential as it allows steam to penetrate the meat, keeping it juicy. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. Make sure not to overcook, as the chicken can dry out quickly.

5. Adding Parmesan
When the chicken breast is nearly done, sprinkle the grated parmesan on top. Cover the skillet again and let it melt for 1-2 minutes. You will notice how the cheese melts and forms a delicious crust, adding an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

6. Preparing the Salad
Meanwhile, prepare a fresh salad. Combine the lettuce leaves with sliced radishes, diced bell pepper, and feta. Add a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper to season the salad. This will add a crunchy and fresh note, perfect to accompany the chicken breast.

7. Serving
Serve the chicken breast with parmesan on a platter, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley. Alongside, add generous portions of the prepared salad. This combination not only looks good but also offers a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical Tips

- It is important to let the chicken breast rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This helps redistribute the juices and will make the meat juicier.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, if parmesan is not to your liking.
- An interesting variation is to add a few slices of lemon on top of the chicken breast before covering it. This will add a refreshing citrus flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken breast?
It is recommended to use fresh chicken breast for the best results. However, if you use frozen chicken breast, make sure to fully thaw it before cooking.

2. How do I know when the chicken breast is cooked?
The chicken breast is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 75°C. You can use a kitchen thermometer to check this.

3. Can I add vegetables to the pan?
Of course! Add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the pan alongside the chicken breast to create a richer and more colorful meal.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This chicken breast with parmesan recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. One serving contains approximately 400 calories, being rich in protein due to the chicken breast. Parmesan provides a source of calcium, while the vegetables in the salad are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins.

Complementary Recipes and Drinks

For a complete meal, you can accompany this dish with mashed potatoes or rice, which will absorb the delicious juices of the chicken. A light drink, such as a dry white wine or fresh lemonade, will perfectly complement this dinner.

In conclusion, chicken breast with parmesan is a simple, quick, and flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion. Don't forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process, as every meal prepared with love is a celebration! Enjoy your meal!