Introduction
Chickopini is a delicious and hearty Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken breasts, a rich tomato-based sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. This flavorful dish hails from the tradition of Italian comfort food, and with its bold spices, herbs, and perfectly cooked chicken, it promises to deliver a mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy family meal, Chickopini brings the warmth of Italy to your dining table. The recipe, discovered in an old church cookbook, preserves the authenticity of Italian home-cooking passed down through generations.
Time
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Needed Equipment
- Shallow dishes for dredging chicken
- Frying pan or skillet
- Large saucepan
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Knife and chopping board
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
Tags
- Italian Cuisine
- Chicken Recipes
- Comfort Food
- Family Dinner
- Cheese Lovers
- Tomato-Based Dishes
Serving Size
Servings: 4-6 people
Difficulty Level
Difficulty: Medium
Allergen Information
- Contains dairy (mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese)
- Contains gluten (bread crumbs)
- Contains eggs
- Possible allergens substitutions:
- Gluten-free bread crumbs can be used.
- For dairy-free, substitute with vegan cheese.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4-5 pieces |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Bread crumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Mozzarella cheese (sliced) | 6-8 slices |
| Italian-style tomatoes (canned) | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Dried thyme | 2 teaspoons |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh basil (for garnish) | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a shallow dish, mix the grated Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg.
- Dip each chicken breast first in the beaten egg, then coat it evenly with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.
Pan-Fry the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken breasts until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
- Using the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the canned Italian-style tomatoes, breaking them into smaller pieces as they cook.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, dried thyme, and dried basil. Simmer for an additional 20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Assemble the Dish
- Arrange the pan-fried chicken breasts in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour half of the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Lay the slices of mozzarella cheese over the chicken, covering the entire surface.
- Top with the remaining sauce, ensuring it is spread evenly across the dish.
- Sprinkle any leftover Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture over the top for added texture.
Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 1/2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to become golden brown and slightly crispy.
Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve hot with a side of pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Preparation Tips
- Make sure to fully coat the chicken breasts with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture to achieve a crispy, flavorful exterior.
- When frying the chicken, cook it in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring even browning.
- For a smoother sauce, use a hand blender to puree the Italian-style tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 659.8 kcal |
| Fat | 25.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 235 mg |
| Sodium | 2053.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 31.3 g |
| Fiber | 3.9 g |
| Sugars | 13.9 g |
| Protein | 75.2 g |
Tips and Tricks
- For a healthier version: Substitute part-skim mozzarella or reduce the amount of cheese used. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free bread crumbs for a lighter, allergy-friendly option.
- Extra sauce: Make additional sauce and freeze it in an airtight container. It can be used for future dishes such as pasta or pizza.
- Customizable flavors: Add your favorite herbs or a dash of red pepper flakes to spice up the sauce.
- Cheese substitutions: Try swapping the mozzarella for provolone or fontina to change up the flavor profile.
Add-ons
- Vegetables: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added to the sauce for a more nutritious meal.
- Cheese options: Add some shredded Romano or Asiago cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
- Fresh herbs: Garnish with fresh oregano or parsley along with the basil for more vibrant flavors.
Side Dishes
- Pasta: Serve Chickopini with a side of spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine.
- Garlic Bread: A crusty garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the rich tomato sauce.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with Italian dressing or a simple vinaigrette balances the heaviness of the dish.
Improvements
- For more tenderness: Marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian herbs for a few hours before cooking.
- For extra crispiness: Double coat the chicken breasts with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture by repeating the dipping process to achieve a thicker, crunchier crust.
Save and Store
- Storage: Leftover Chickopini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze Chickopini in an oven-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or place the entire dish in the oven to reheat evenly. Add a little extra sauce or cheese if needed to maintain moisture.
FAQ
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.
Q: Can I prepare Chickopini ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
Q: What is a good cheese substitute for mozzarella?
A: Provolone, fontina, or even Monterey Jack can be used as substitutes for mozzarella in this recipe.
Q: Can I make Chickopini gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Use gluten-free bread crumbs and make sure the Parmesan cheese is gluten-free as well.
Q: How can I make the sauce spicier?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the tomato sauce for extra heat.
Conclusion
Chickopini is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure that brings the flavors of Italy to life. From the crispy, golden-brown chicken breasts to the tangy tomato sauce and gooey melted mozzarella cheese, each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or even a comforting weeknight dinner. Paired with simple sides like pasta or salad, Chickopini is a complete meal that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
References
- Authentic Italian Cookbook by Maria Rossetti, published 1986, for traditional tomato sauce recipes.
- Church Cookbook, Old Italian-American Church Edition, for the discovery of Chickopini recipe.
This completes the full recipe article on Chickopini, structured for optimal SEO and culinary enjoyment!
