Eggplant Stuffed Chicken Parmesan: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that will impress your dinner guests, look no further than eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan. This dish combines the classic flavors of chicken parmesan with the added texture and flavor of eggplant for a unique and satisfying meal.
To make eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan, you’ll need a few key ingredients, including chicken breasts, eggplant, breadcrumbs, and marinara sauce. The chicken is sliced and pounded thin, then stuffed with a mixture of eggplant, breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese. The chicken is then breaded and baked until crispy and golden brown, and served with a generous helping of marinara sauce.
Whether you’re looking for a new twist on a classic favorite or simply want to try something new, eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan is a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please. So why not give it a try the next time you’re in the mood for something hearty and delicious?
Key Takeaways
- Eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan combines the classic flavors of chicken parmesan with the added texture and flavor of eggplant.
- The dish requires chicken breasts, eggplant, breadcrumbs, and marinara sauce.
- The chicken is sliced and pounded thin, then stuffed with a mixture of eggplant, breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese, breaded, and baked until crispy and golden brown.
Ingredients for Eggplant Stuffed Chicken Parmesan
Making eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan is an excellent way to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal. Before you start cooking, you will need to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here is a list of the ingredients you will need:
Chicken Breasts
The first ingredient you will need is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You will need four chicken breasts for this recipe. Make sure to buy fresh chicken breasts from a reputable supplier to ensure the best quality and flavor.
Eggplant
The second ingredient you will need is eggplant. You will need two large eggplants for this recipe. Choose eggplants that are firm and heavy for their size.
Tomato Sauce
You will also need tomato sauce to make the recipe. You can use store-bought tomato sauce or make your own. If you decide to make your own tomato sauce, you will need tomatoes, garlic, onions, and olive oil.
Cheese
Cheese is an essential ingredient in eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan. You will need mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese. Make sure to buy high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
Bread Crumbs
Bread crumbs are used to coat the chicken breasts before cooking. You can use store-bought bread crumbs or make your own by grinding stale bread in a food processor.
Herbs and Spices
Finally, you will need herbs and spices to add flavor to the dish. You can use dried oregano, basil, and parsley. Salt and pepper are also essential to season the dish.
By gathering all these ingredients, you will be able to make a delicious eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan that your family and friends will love.
Preparation of the Chicken
To make the eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan, you will need to start with preparing the chicken. Here’s how you can prepare the chicken for this dish.
Flattening and Seasoning
First, you will need to flatten the chicken breasts to make them even in thickness. This will help the chicken cook evenly and make it easier to roll up the stuffing. To do this, place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large resealable plastic bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken until it is about 1/4 inch thick.
Once the chicken is flattened, season it with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Stuffing Technique
After seasoning the chicken, it’s time to add the stuffing. Lay a slice of eggplant on top of each chicken breast. Then, add a spoonful of marinara sauce on top of the eggplant. Finally, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
To roll up the chicken, start at one end and roll the chicken tightly around the filling. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the chicken roll.
And there you have it, the chicken is now ready to be cooked for the eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan dish.
Eggplant Preparation
Slicing and Breading
To prepare the eggplant for the stuffed chicken parmesan, you will need to slice the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick slices. Use a vegetable peeler to remove vertical stripes of peel from the eggplant. This will give the eggplant a nice striped appearance and also help it cook evenly.
After slicing the eggplant, season it with 1/2 teaspoon salt. This will help draw out the excess moisture from the eggplant, making it less bitter and easier to cook. Next, bread the eggplant by dipping each slice into flour, then into beaten eggs, and finally into breadcrumbs. This will give the eggplant a crispy, golden crust when it’s cooked.
Frying or Baking
You have two options for cooking the eggplant: frying or baking. If you prefer a crispy texture, frying is the way to go. Heat up a skillet with enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded eggplant slices and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
If you prefer a healthier option, baking is a great alternative. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and the coating is crispy.
In conclusion, preparing the eggplant for stuffed chicken parmesan is easy and straightforward. By slicing and breading the eggplant and then frying or baking it, you can create a delicious and crispy base for your stuffed chicken parmesan dish.
Assembly and Baking
Layering Components
Now that you have your chicken and eggplant ready, it’s time to start assembling your stuffed chicken parmesan. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F.
Take a baking dish and spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place your chicken breasts on top of the sauce, then top each chicken breast with a generous amount of the eggplant mixture.
Next, spoon a layer of marinara sauce over the eggplant mixture, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering process until all of your chicken breasts are covered.
Cheese Topping and Baking
Once you have layered all of your components, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Sprinkle a layer of grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the mozzarella cheese, then cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
If you are planning to serve Eggplant Stuffed Chicken Parmesan for dinner, you may be wondering what to serve with it. Here are some serving suggestions that will complement the flavors of this delicious dish.
Side Dish Recommendations
- Garlic Bread – A warm, crusty garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to Eggplant Stuffed Chicken Parmesan. You can make it yourself or buy it from your local bakery.
- Roasted Vegetables – Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, are a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs well with this dish. You can roast them in the oven with some olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad is a great side dish for Eggplant Stuffed Chicken Parmesan. The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a nice contrast to the rich and cheesy flavors of the main dish.
Plating and Garnishing
When it comes to plating and garnishing Eggplant Stuffed Chicken Parmesan, there are a few things you can do to make it look even more appetizing.
- Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, over the top of the dish before serving. This will add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
- Parmesan Cheese – Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the top of the dish just before serving. This will add an extra layer of cheesy goodness to the dish.
- Balsamic Glaze – Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top of the dish for a sweet and tangy flavor. You can make your own balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar with sugar until it thickens.
By following these serving suggestions, you can create a complete and satisfying meal that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the health benefits of eating eggplant in chicken parmesan?
Eggplants are low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in vitamins and minerals. They are also a good source of antioxidants that can help protect against cell damage. When combined with chicken, which is a good source of protein, eggplant can make a nutritious and satisfying meal.
How can I make a simple and easy eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan?
To make an easy and delicious eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan, you will need thinly sliced chicken breasts, eggplant, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite tomato sauce. Begin by slicing the eggplant into thin rounds, and then sauté them in olive oil until they are tender. Next, stuff the chicken breasts with the cooked eggplant, bread crumbs, and parmesan cheese. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish, cover with tomato sauce, and top with mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What is the best way to bake eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan to ensure it’s fully cooked?
To ensure that your eggplant stuffed chicken parmesan is fully cooked, it is important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered fully cooked. Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How does one pan chicken and eggplant parmigiana differ from the traditional recipe?
One pan chicken and eggplant parmigiana is a simplified version of the traditional recipe that is cooked in one pan. The traditional recipe involves frying the eggplant and chicken separately before layering them with tomato sauce and cheese. In the one pan version, the eggplant and chicken are cooked together in one pan, and then topped with tomato sauce and cheese before being baked in the oven.
What techniques can prevent eggplant parmesan from becoming soggy?
To prevent eggplant parmesan from becoming soggy, it is important to remove excess moisture from the eggplant before cooking. This can be done by salting the eggplant slices and letting them sit for 30 minutes to an hour, which will draw out excess moisture. Another technique is to use dry bread crumbs instead of fresh bread crumbs, which can absorb moisture and create a crispy coating on the eggplant.
Is peeling the eggplant necessary when preparing eggplant parmesan?
Peeling the eggplant is not necessary when preparing eggplant parmesan, but it is recommended. The skin of the eggplant can be tough and bitter, so removing it can improve the texture and flavor of the dish. However, if you prefer to leave the skin on, make sure to wash the eggplant thoroughly before slicing it.
