Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce Recipe
Do you love Chicken Parmesan but feel like it’s missing that extra something?
What if I told you that adding a splash of vodka to your sauce could elevate this classic dish to a new level? That’s right – Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce is the game-changer you’ve been looking for.
This recipe combines the familiar, comforting flavors of Chicken Parm with the rich, creamy goodness of vodka sauce. Intrigued? Let’s dive in and discover how to make this culinary masterpiece at home.
For more delicious recipes, check out these links: Chicken Kebab Recipe and Albanian Cornbread Recipe.
Why Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce is a Must-Try
Chicken Parmesan is a beloved dish, cherished for its crispy breaded chicken, gooey melted cheese, and savory tomato sauce. But adding vodka sauce?
It’s a revelation! The vodka sauce introduces a luxurious creaminess and a subtle kick that transforms the dish into something extraordinary.
This twist not only enhances the flavor but also adds a gourmet touch that’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this delicious dish requires a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you need:
For the Chicken:
4 chicken cutlets
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
2 eggs, beaten
Olive oil for frying
For the Vodka Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
1 shallot, finely diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup tomato paste
⅓ cup vodka
1 cup heavy cream
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients combine to create a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and unforgettable.
How to Make Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce?
To make Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce, you need:
For the Chicken:
4 chicken cutlets
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
2 eggs, beaten
Olive oil for frying
4 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
For the Vodka Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
1 shallot, finely diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup tomato paste
⅓ cup vodka
1 cup heavy cream
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Vodka Sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, cooking until soft.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 5 minutes until it darkens.
- Pour in the vodka, cooking until the alcohol evaporates.
- Add the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Dip in beaten eggs, then coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and parmesan.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken cutlets until golden brown on both sides.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish, and top with vodka sauce and mozzarella slices. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
This method combines the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan with a rich vodka sauce, creating a delightful and satisfying dish.
Pro Tip: For an even crispier chicken, let the breaded cutlets rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better and prevents it from falling off during cooking.
Perfect Pairings for Your Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce
Wondering what to serve with your Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce? Here are some great ideas:
Pasta: Serve your chicken parmesan over spaghetti or linguine. The pasta can soak up any extra vodka sauce, making every bite delightful.
Salad: A simple arugula salad with a balsamic glaze provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken parmesan.
Wine Pairing: A buttery Chardonnay complements the creamy vodka sauce beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Related Recipe: For a lighter side dish, try the Easy Chicken Kebab Recipe here.
Storing and Reheating Your Leftovers
The leftovers of this dish are just as delicious. Here’s how to store and reheat them:
Storage: Place any leftover chicken parm in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, then remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Pro Tip: Store any extra vodka sauce separately. It can be used to make a quick pasta dish later in the week.
Conclusion
Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce is a delicious twist on a classic dish. The crispy chicken and creamy vodka sauce make it perfect for any meal.
This recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a flavorful, impressive dish that will wow your family and friends. So next time you’re craving Chicken Parmesan, try adding a splash of vodka sauce – you won’t be disappointed!
For more tasty recipes, visit Easy Breezy Bites and discover a world of delicious, easy-to-make dishes that will become your new favorites. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!
Chicken Parm With Vodka Sauce recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken cutlets
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 jar marinara sauce 24 oz
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- Fresh basil leaves chopped
- Olive oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to tas
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each cutlet in the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese mixture.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Fry the breaded chicken cutlets until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the Vodka Sauce:
- In a saucepan, sauté the minced garlic in a bit of olive oil until fragrant.
- Add the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the vodka and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce is well combined and thickened.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the fried chicken cutlets in a baking dish.
- Pour the vodka sauce over the chicken, ensuring each cutlet is well coated.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dish or pasta.
FAQ
Is vodka sauce a mix of alfredo and marinara? No, vodka sauce is not a mix of Alfredo and marinara. It is a tomato-based sauce with a creamy texture, thanks to the addition of heavy cream and vodka. The vodka enhances the flavor by bringing out the sweetness and acidity of the tomatoes.
What does vodka sauce go with? Vodka sauce goes well with pasta dishes, particularly penne or rigatoni. It can also be used as a topping for chicken or seafood dishes, making it a versatile sauce for various recipes.
What alcohol goes with chicken parmesan? A good wine pairing for chicken parmesan is a buttery Chardonnay or a light red wine like Pinot Noir. Both complement the rich, creamy flavors of the dish.
When should I add vodka to vodka sauce? You should add vodka to the sauce after the tomato paste has cooked for a few minutes. This allows the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld together.
Can you put too much vodka in vodka sauce? Yes, adding too much vodka can make the sauce taste overly alcoholic. Stick to the recommended amount (usually around ⅓ cup) to balance the flavors.
Does all the alcohol cook out of vodka sauce? Not all the alcohol cooks out of vodka sauce, but most of it does. The cooking process reduces the alcohol content significantly, leaving just the flavor-enhancing properties.
What makes vodka sauce better? Using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh garlic, high-quality tomato paste, and real cream, can make the vodka sauce taste better. Additionally, letting the sauce simmer slowly allows the flavors to develop fully.
Why does my vodka sauce not taste like vodka sauce? If your vodka sauce lacks flavor, it might be due to not cooking the vodka long enough to mellow out the harsh alcohol taste. Make sure to let it cook until the alcohol evaporates and the flavors blend well.
Can I use gin instead of vodka in vodka sauce? Yes, you can use gin instead of vodka, but it will impart a different flavor to the sauce due to the botanical elements in gin. Vodka is preferred because it has a neutral taste that enhances the other ingredients.
What do Italians eat vodka sauce with? Italians typically enjoy vodka sauce with pasta, especially penne or rigatoni. It is also popular as a sauce for pizza or as a base for seafood dishes.
How do you add flavor to vodka sauce? To add more flavor to vodka sauce, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a bit of grated cheese for extra richness.
Can I use milk instead of cream in vodka pasta? Yes, you can use milk instead of cream, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. To achieve a similar texture, you can add a bit of butter or a tablespoon of flour to thicken the sauce.