Chicken parmigiana

Chicken parmigiana, also known as chicken parmesan, is a beloved dish featuring breaded chicken breast topped with tomato sauce and a melted layer of mozzarella, Parmesan, or provolone cheese. Occasionally, it includes enhancements like ham or bacon. This delicious creation has its origins in the 20th-century Italian immigrant community and is believed to be a fusion of the Italian classics melanzane alla Parmigiana and cotoletta. In the U.S., it is often referred to as "chicken parm" whereas in Australia, it is affectionately known as "parma" "parmi" or "parmy."

In North America, chicken parmigiana gained popularity among Italian immigrants in the northeastern United States and swiftly became a staple in Italian-American restaurants by the 1950s. It wasn't long before home cooks embraced it as well, with recipes appearing in publications such as the New York Herald Tribune and The New York Times. In the U.S. and Canada, chicken parmigiana is typically served as a main course, frequently accompanied by pasta or even sandwiched in a roll.

In Australia, chicken parmigiana has been a pub favorite since the 1950s. It is usually served with a side of chips and salad, though presentations can vary. The dish is so popular that some restaurants specialize exclusively in chicken parmigiana, and there are even websites dedicated to reviewing different versions from various pubs.

Similar dishes exist around the world. In Italy, there are relatives like melanzane alla Parmigiana, carne pizzaiola, cotoletta alla Bolognese, and Costolette Parmigiana. In the UK, there's the parmo, which is similar but includes a white béchamel sauce. In Argentina, they offer a variation of milanesa a la napolitana made with chicken instead of beef, sometimes topped with ham, bacon, or even a fried egg.