Chicken Parmigiana Vs Parmesan: Which One Is More Popular?
What To Know
- The dish is believed to have emerged in the mid-19th century as a variation of the classic eggplant parmigiana.
- Chicken parmigiana typically uses a thicker, more robust tomato sauce, while chicken Parmesan uses a thinner, more acidic sauce.
- Chicken parmigiana offers a hearty and comforting meal, while chicken Parmesan provides a lighter and more flavorful experience.
In the realm of Italian-American cuisine, two dishes stand tall as culinary icons: chicken parmigiana and chicken Parmesan. While their names may sound similar, they are distinct creations with their own unique flavors and characteristics. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the depths of chicken parmigiana vs parmesan, exploring their origins, ingredients, preparation methods, and the subtle nuances that set them apart.
Origins and Etymology
Chicken Parmigiana
The origins of chicken parmigiana can be traced back to the Italian region of Campania, particularly the city of Naples. The dish is believed to have emerged in the mid-19th century as a variation of the classic eggplant parmigiana. The name “parmigiana” derives from the Italian word “parmigiano,” referring to the grated Parmesan cheese that is a key ingredient.
Chicken Parmesan
In contrast, chicken Parmesan has a more Americanized history. It is believed to have originated in the early 20th century in Italian-American communities in New York City. The name “Parmesan” in this context refers to the same Parmesan cheese used in chicken parmigiana, but it has become more commonly associated with the dish in the United States.
Ingredients and Preparation
Chicken Parmigiana
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts, pounded thin
- Flour
- Eggs
- Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Tomato sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
Preparation:
1. Dip the chicken breasts in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs.
2. Pan-fry the chicken until golden brown.
3. Spread a layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish.
4. Top with the chicken breasts.
5. Cover with another layer of tomato sauce.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts, cut into cutlets
- Flour
- Eggs
- Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Tomato sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
Preparation:
1. Dip the chicken cutlets in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs.
2. Pan-fry the chicken cutlets in olive oil until golden brown.
3. Spread a layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish.
4. Top with the chicken cutlets.
5. Cover with another layer of tomato sauce.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Key Differences
While chicken parmigiana and chicken Parmesan share some similarities, there are several key differences between the two dishes:
- Chicken Cut: Chicken parmigiana typically uses pounded chicken breasts, while chicken Parmesan uses cutlets.
- Pan-frying: Chicken parmigiana is pan-fried before baking, while chicken Parmesan is pan-fried after baking.
- Olive Oil: Chicken Parmesan is cooked in olive oil, while chicken parmigiana is not.
- Tomato Sauce: Chicken parmigiana typically uses a thicker, more robust tomato sauce, while chicken Parmesan uses a thinner, more acidic sauce.
Flavor and Texture
Chicken Parmigiana
Chicken parmigiana offers a hearty and flavorful experience. The pounded chicken breasts provide a tender and juicy base, while the breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch. The combination of tomato sauce, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese creates a rich and tangy flavor profile.
Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan has a lighter and crispier texture. The cutlets are thinner and more evenly coated, resulting in a more delicate and flavorful crust. The olive oil adds a subtle nutty flavor, while the thinner tomato sauce allows the other ingredients to shine through.
Serving Suggestions
Both chicken parmigiana and chicken Parmesan are versatile dishes that can be served with a variety of sides. Popular options include:
- Pasta, such as spaghetti or penne
- Rice
- Roasted vegetables
- Breadsticks or garlic knots
Key Points: A Matter of Taste
Ultimately, the choice between chicken parmigiana and chicken Parmesan comes down to personal preference. Chicken parmigiana offers a hearty and comforting meal, while chicken Parmesan provides a lighter and more flavorful experience. Whether you prefer the classic flavors of parmigiana or the Americanized twist of Parmesan, both dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings for Italian-American cuisine.
What People Want to Know
Q: What is the difference between chicken parmigiana and chicken Parmesan?
A: Chicken parmigiana uses pounded chicken breasts, is pan-fried before baking, and has a thicker tomato sauce. Chicken Parmesan uses cutlets, is pan-fried after baking, is cooked in olive oil, and has a thinner tomato sauce.
Q: Which dish is healthier?
A: Chicken Parmesan is generally considered healthier as it uses cutlets instead of pounded chicken breasts and is cooked in olive oil.
Q: Can I make chicken parmigiana or chicken Parmesan at home?
A: Yes, both dishes are relatively easy to make at home. Recipes for both dishes can be found online or in cookbooks.
Q: What type of cheese is best for chicken parmigiana or chicken Parmesan?
A: Parmesan cheese is the traditional choice for both dishes, but other types of hard cheeses such as Romano or Asiago can also be used.
Q: Can I use breadcrumbs other than Italian breadcrumbs?
A: Yes, you can use panko breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
