Can you prepare chicken parmesan ahead of time? This is a question that many busy individuals ask themselves when planning a dinner party or a family gathering. Chicken parmesan is a classic Italian dish that is both delicious and satisfying, but it can also be quite time-consuming to make from scratch. The good news is that with a few tips and tricks, you can indeed prepare chicken parmesan ahead of time, making it a convenient option for any occasion.
In the following paragraphs, we will discuss how to prepare chicken parmesan ahead of time, including making the marinade, breading the chicken, and preparing the sauce. By following these steps, you can ensure that your chicken parmesan is delicious and ready to serve when you need it.
First, start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, combine equal parts of olive oil and white wine, along with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. You can also add other spices and herbs to suit your taste. Place the chicken pieces in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for the best flavor.
Once the chicken has marinated, you can move on to breading the chicken. Take a shallow dish and pour in a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Next, dip the coated chicken into an egg wash, and then into breadcrumbs. Repeat this process for each piece of chicken until all are breaded.
After the chicken is breaded, you can move on to preparing the sauce. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to sauté until fragrant. Then, pour in some marinara sauce and let it simmer. If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a mixture of half-and-half and milk.
Now, you can cook the chicken parmesan. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the breaded chicken pieces in a baking dish, and pour the simmering sauce over them. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
To prepare chicken parmesan ahead of time, you can cook the chicken and sauce separately. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, cover it with foil and place it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce together in the oven or on the stove, and sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
By preparing chicken parmesan ahead of time, you can save yourself time and stress, allowing you to enjoy the process of cooking and spending quality time with your loved ones. So, the next time you find yourself asking, “Can you prepare chicken parmesan ahead of time?” the answer is a resounding yes!
