Grandma’s Chicken Chardon is a classic dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table. This family favorite is known for its tender chicken breasts, crispy coating, and flavorful seasoning. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, Chicken Chardon is easy to make and loved by everyone. This recipe preserves the traditional flavors while incorporating some modern touches to ensure a delightful dining experience. Follow along to learn how to prepare this delectable dish that will surely become a staple in your home.
Ingredients for Grandma’s Chicken Chardon
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Grandma’s Chicken Chardon
1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the chicken breasts. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and tender results.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
Prepare three shallow dishes for breading the chicken. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, beat the eggs until well combined. In the third dish, mix the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Bread the Chicken Breasts
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly and pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to adhere.
4. Fry the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts, cooking them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the fried chicken breasts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Bake the Chicken
Place the fried chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish. Spoon the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
6. Serve and Garnish
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve the Chicken Chardon hot, with your favorite side dishes.
About the Main Ingredients
Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. They are a lean source of protein and cook quickly, making them ideal for weeknight dinners. Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and stay tender.
Italian-Style Breadcrumbs
Italian-style breadcrumbs are seasoned with herbs and spices, adding flavor and texture to the chicken. They create a crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken inside. If you prefer, you can make your own breadcrumbs by mixing plain breadcrumbs with dried Italian herbs and spices.
Parmesan Cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor to the breadcrumb coating. It also helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken and creates a crispy, golden-brown crust. For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce provides a tangy and savory topping for the Chicken Chardon. It complements the crispy chicken and melted cheese perfectly. You can use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own from scratch using tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs.
Mozzarella Cheese
Shredded mozzarella cheese melts beautifully over the chicken, creating a gooey, cheesy topping. It adds a mild, creamy flavor that pairs well with the marinara sauce and crispy chicken. For a more flavorful variation, you can use a blend of mozzarella and provolone or fontina cheese.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used for frying the chicken, giving it a rich flavor and crispy texture. It is a healthy fat that adds depth to the dish. Use extra-virgin olive oil for the best results, as it has a higher smoke point and a robust flavor.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Chardon
- Ensure Even Breading: When breading the chicken, make sure each piece is evenly coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture. This helps achieve a uniform crispy texture.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet. This helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures the chicken cooks evenly and crisply.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After baking, let the Chicken Chardon rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
