Smashed Chicken Parmesan Texas Toast Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 8 servings.

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 package frozen garlic flavored Texas toast
• 4 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the dish:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the mixture is well incorporated.
2. Spread a thin, even layer of the chicken mixture over one side of each piece of Texas toast, ensuring that the edges of the bread are covered.
3. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 2 teaspoons of olive oil to the skillet.
4. Place half of the prepared toasts, chicken side down, in the skillet. Lightly press each toast with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
5. Cook the toasts, undisturbed, for about 4 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
6. Flip the toasts and reduce the heat to low. Top each toast with 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce and 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Cover the skillet and turn off the heat. Let the toasts sit for about 2 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted.
8. Repeat the process with the remaining toasts, adding more oil to the skillet if necessary.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (1 toast):

Calories	256
Total Fat	13g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	71mg
Sodium	432mg
Total Carbohydrate	18g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	20g
Vitamin C	13mg
Calcium	186mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	625mg

Note: The nutrition facts are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Origins of Smashed Chicken Parmesan Texas Toast

The Smashed Chicken Parmesan Texas Toast is a modern American twist on the classic Italian chicken Parmesan. Traditional chicken Parmesan, or "pollo alla parmigiana," originated in Southern Italy, typically involving breaded chicken cutlets baked with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. In the United States, Italian immigrants adapted the recipe to suit local tastes, resulting in regional variations. The addition of Texas toasta thick, buttery, garlicky breadcreates a heartier, more indulgent version of the dish, blending Italian flavors with Southern comfort food sensibilities.

Regional Characteristics

This dish is particularly popular in the Southern and Midwestern United States, where Texas toast is a staple. Unlike thinner sandwich breads, Texas toast can hold the smashed chicken mixture without becoming soggy. The cooking methodsmashing the ground chicken onto the toastresembles the smashburger style that gained popularity in American diners. This regional innovation combines Italian-American flavors with the casual, approachable style of Southern cuisine, emphasizing crisp textures and bold, savory seasoning.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While traditional chicken Parmesan uses whole chicken breasts, this recipe employs ground chicken pressed flat onto the toast. This technique reduces cooking time and creates a more uniform, flavorful bite. Compared to classic Italian sandwiches or paninis, the Smashed Chicken Parmesan Texas Toast is thicker, cheesier, and more textured. The use of pre-flavored garlic Texas toast also sets it apart, delivering a distinct garlicky richness that complements the marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.

Where Its Commonly Served

This dish is typically served in casual dining settings, family-style restaurants, or at home as a quick, satisfying dinner. Its a popular choice for gatherings and parties because it is easy to prepare in batches and appeals to a wide audience. Some diners offer it as a signature sandwich or comfort food item, often paired with a side of fries, a simple salad, or pickles to balance the richness of the cheese and chicken.

Interesting Facts

• The concept of smashing meat comes from American burger culture, which emphasizes a seared, caramelized crust for maximum flavor.
• Texas toast, the foundation of this dish, was invented in the 1940s by a Texas restaurant owner who wanted thicker bread for sandwiches, giving this dish its unique base.
• Despite its Italian-American roots, the Smashed Chicken Parmesan Texas Toast is rarely found in Italyit is a distinctly U.S. creation.
• Variations may include different cheeses like provolone or fontina, or additional toppings such as sauted mushrooms or fresh basil, demonstrating its versatility.
• The recipes popularity has grown thanks to social media and food blogs, making it a favorite for home cooks seeking a quick, visually appealing meal.

FAQ about Smashed Chicken Parmesan Texas Toast Recipe

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