Dave’s Vodka Chicken Parmesan

Dave’s Vodka Chicken Parmesan is a delicious twist on the classic chicken parmigiana, incorporating the rich flavors of vodka sauce with crispy chicken cutlets, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Follow this recipe to create a mouth-watering dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 6 chicken cutlets
• 1/2 cup pancetta, diced
• 1/4 cup egg whites
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

For the Vodka Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 1/4 cup vodka
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 6 tablespoons heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For Assembly

• 12 slices mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Prepare the Dredging Station: In a shallow bowl, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs and egg whites together.
2. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg mixture, then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they adhere well.
3. Fry the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chicken cutlets until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Making the Vodka Sauce

4. Sauté the Pancetta: In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy. Remove the pancetta and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
5. Cook the Aromatics: In the same saucepan, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, rosemary, and oregano, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Deglaze with Vodka: Pour in the vodka and cook until it has reduced by half, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, Italian seasoning, and cooked pancetta. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes. Add the chopped fresh parsley and stir to combine.

Assembling the Chicken Parmesan

9. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Layer the Chicken and Sauce: In a large baking dish, spread a layer of vodka sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken cutlets on top of the sauce. Spoon more vodka sauce over each cutlet.
11. Add Cheese: Top each chicken cutlet with two slices of mozzarella cheese.
12. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving

13. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of Dave’s Vodka Chicken Parmesan.

Tips and Variations

• Cheese Variations: Use provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with eggplant slices for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vodka sauce for a spicy variation.
• Serve with Pasta: Serve the chicken parmesan over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

This dish provides a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Adjust portion sizes to fit your dietary needs and preferences.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 180°C (356°F) until warmed through.

Dave’s Vodka Chicken Parmesan is a rich and satisfying dish that combines the best of classic chicken parmesan with the creamy, flavorful twist of vodka sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy your meal, and see you in the next recipe!

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet meal with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting texture of Dave’s Vodka Chicken Parmesan, a treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!