Embark on a culinary journey with the Chicken Parm Hero, an epitome of comfort and flavor that holds a cherished spot in the hearts of many. This hearty hero sandwich boasts a symphony of textures and tastes, combining succulent breaded chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and melty cheese within the embrace of a warm, crusty roll. While the origins of this delectable creation may be rooted in Italian-American tradition, the Chicken Parm Hero has undoubtedly carved its own niche in the realm of beloved comfort foods, captivating palates far and wide.
How Chicken Parm Hero started
Venture into the annals of history, and youβll find that the Chicken Parm Heroβs story intertwines with the rise of Italian immigration in the United States. Born from a fusion of old-world culinary traditions and newfound ingredients, this hero emerged as a delectable testament to the adaptability of flavors across generations. Its evolution reflects the spirit of innovation and a dedication to crafting something truly satisfying.
What makes the Chicken Parm Hero an object of culinary adoration?
The answer transcends its delicious components. Itβs a symphony of contrasts β the crispiness of the breaded chicken against the tender roll, the zesty tomato sauce harmonizing with the richness of melted cheese. Itβs a moment of indulgence that satisfies both hunger and the soul, a generous helping of comfort on a plate.
How to make Chicken Parm Hero at Home
Now, channel your inner chef and embark on the journey to create a Chicken Parm Hero within your homeβs cozy confines. Armed with breaded chicken, a medley of cheeses, tomato sauce, and a crusty roll, let your kitchen become your stage. As you assemble the layers, feel the anticipation build β the melding of flavors, the aroma that wafts through the air. And when the hero emerges, golden and tantalizing, youβll have captured the essence of this beloved classic. Itβs not just a meal; itβs a culinary embrace, a creation that pays homage to tradition while embracing the joy of homemade comfort.
Ingredients to make Chicken Parm Hero
β¦ β 1 teaspoon kosher salt
β¦ β 2 large eggs
β¦ β 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into 4 slices
β¦ β 4 each brioche buns or hamburger buns
β¦ β 1 cup old school Italian gravy or marinara sauce
β¦ β 1 Tablespoon water
β¦ β 3-4 cups vegetable oil for frying
β¦ β 4 each thinly sliced chicken breasts, 4-6 ounces each
β¦ β 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
β¦ β Β½ teaspoon black pepper
β¦ β ΒΎ cup Italian breadcrumbs
β¦ β Β½ cup all-purpose flour
β¦ β ΒΌ cup grated parmesan cheese
β¦ β Teaspoons garlic salt
β¦ β Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Steps to make Chicken Parm Hero
Step 1: Prepare the Flour Mixture
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl or shallow dish. This initial coating will add a subtle layer of seasoning to the chicken.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
In another bowl, scramble the large eggs along with a tablespoon of water. The egg mixture will act as a binding agent, helping the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
Step 3: Create the Breadcrumb Blend
Mix together Italian breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese in a third bowl or shallow dish. This flavorful combination will form the crispy outer layer of the chicken.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
On the stovetop or in a deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350ΛF in a deep-sided pot. Proper oil temperature is essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown crispiness.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
As the oil heats, coat each thinly sliced chicken breast in a well-orchestrated dance of flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixtures. The careful layering of flavors and textures begins here.
Step 6: Fry to Perfection
In small batches, gently place the breaded chicken into the hot oil. Allow them to fry for 3-5 minutes on each side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches a safe 165ΛF.
Step 7: Drain and Rest
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the fried chicken from the oil, letting any excess oil drain off. Give them a moment to rest on a cooling rack or paper towels.
Step 8: Melt the Cheese
Preheat the broiler in your oven and position the fried chicken on a prepared sheet pan. Crown each piece with a tantalizing symphony of sauce and a slice of mozzarella cheese. Under the broilerβs warm embrace, watch as the cheese melts and takes on a delicate golden hue.
Step 9: Toast the Buns
Liberally spread butter on the insides of the buns, then give them a light sprinkle of garlic salt. Place the buttery buns under the broiler for a brief interlude, allowing them to transform into golden perfection.
Step 10: Assemble the Hero
Nestle each piece of fried chicken onto a bottom bun bedecked with a drizzle of sauce. Add a touch of freshness with vibrant basil leaves. Crown your creation with the top bun, and there it stands β your very own Chicken Parm Hero, ready to be savored and devoured.
Nutrition facts
β¦ β Protein: 17g
β¦ β Cholesterol: 138 mg
β¦ β Vitamin A: 1033IU
β¦ β Calories: 844 kcal
β¦ β Iron: 3mg
β¦ β Fat: 72g
β¦ β Carbohydrates: 33g
β¦ β Fiber: 3g
β¦ β Saturated Fat: 18g
β¦ β Sodium: 2083mg
β¦ β Potassium: 336mg
β¦ β Calcium: 274mg
β¦ β Sugar: 4g
β¦ β Monounsaturated Fat: 17g
β¦ β Polyunsaturated Fat: 33g
β¦ β Vitamin C: 5mg
β¦ β Trans Fat: 1g
People also Read
Simple And Easy Wagyu Beef Burger Recipe 2023
Simple And Easy Falafel Wrap Recipe In 30 Minutes
Delicious Warm Lobster Roll Recipe In 30 Minutes
Simple And Easy Pastrami On Rye Recipe In 30 Minutes
Delicious Keto Reuben Casserole Recipe In 30 Minutes
Steps to avoid while preparing Chicken Parm Hero
1. Using Excessive Oil: Avoid using too much oil for frying the chicken. Overloading the pot with oil can lead to uneven cooking and a greasy end result.
2. Skipping Proper Coating: Donβt rush through the coating process. Ensure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated with flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixtures for even and crispy breading.
3. Frying at the Wrong Temperature: Frying at too low a temperature can result in soggy breading, while frying at too high a temperature can cause the breading to burn before the chicken is fully cooked. Maintain the recommended oil temperature.
4. Crowding the Pot: Fry the chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Overcrowding can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, leading to uneven frying.
5. Skipping Resting Time: Donβt skip the resting time after frying. Allowing the fried chicken to rest on a rack or paper towels helps drain excess oil and keeps the breading crispy.
6. Neglecting Cheese Placement: Be mindful when placing cheese on the chicken under the broiler. Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed to prevent uneven melting or over-browning.
7. Forgetting Toasted Buns: Avoid skipping the step of toasting the buns under the broiler. Toasted buns provide a sturdy base for the hero and add a pleasant crunch.
8. Overloading Toppings: While toppings like basil add freshness, donβt overload the hero with too many toppings, as they can overwhelm the flavors and textures.
9. Not Monitoring Broiler: When melting the cheese and toasting the buns under the broiler, keep a close eye to prevent burning or overcooking.
10. Skipping Internal Temperature Check: Ensure the internal temperature of the fried chicken reaches 165ΛF. Skipping this step can lead to undercooked chicken.
FAQ
Q1: What is a Chicken Parm Hero?
A1: A Chicken Parm Hero is a sandwich made with breaded and fried chicken cutlets, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, served in a hero or sub roll.
Q2: Is Chicken Parm Hero the same as Chicken Parmesan?
A2: Yes, Chicken Parm Hero is essentially a Chicken Parmesan sandwich, where the crispy chicken cutlet is combined with sauce and cheese in a roll.
Q3: What type of chicken is used in a Chicken Parm Hero?
A3: Thinly sliced and breaded chicken cutlets are typically used in a Chicken Parm Hero.
Q4: What kind of cheese is commonly used in Chicken Parm Hero?
A4: Mozzarella cheese is often used for its meltability and mild flavor, enhancing the richness of the sandwich.
Q5: How is a Chicken Parm Hero assembled?
A5: The sandwich is prepared by layering breaded chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and melted cheese inside a hero or sub roll.
Q6: Can I make a Chicken Parm Hero at home?
A6: Absolutely! Making a Chicken Parm Hero at home is a delightful culinary adventure, offering the opportunity to customize flavors and textures.
Q7: What are the key steps to making a perfect Chicken Parm Hero?
A7: The key steps involve breading and frying chicken cutlets, assembling with marinara sauce and cheese, and toasting the hero roll for a crispy finish.
Q8: Can I use different types of bread for the hero?
A8: While traditionally made with a hero or sub roll, you can experiment with other bread options like ciabatta or even whole-grain rolls.
Q9: What toppings can I add to my Chicken Parm Hero?
A9: Toppings like fresh basil leaves or additional grated parmesan can enhance the flavors and add a touch of freshness.
Q10: Is the Chicken Parm Hero a popular comfort food?
A10: Yes, the Chicken Parm Hero is beloved for its comforting combination of crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and hearty marinara sauce, making it a favorite among many.