For many American diners, chicken Parmesan is a classic go-to choice and might even be the first dish many try at an Italian restaurant. However, where did this entrée actually originate? If you thought it was as authentically Italian as Vespas and opera, you might be surprised. Learn about the history of chicken Parmesan in the following guide.

Italian-American Beginnings

At first glance, that cheesy, tangy plate of breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and cheese looks like an Italian staple. However, Chicken Parmigiana was birthed in the United States in the homes and Italian restaurants of Italian-American immigrants in the mid-1900s. They created the meal as an amalgamation of the two cultures, but it took root in the minds of modern Americans as a distinctly Italian dish.

Inspiration From the Homeland

While it may not have been originally served on a table in Italy traditionally, the dish was heavily inspired by the beloved European country. In fact, it’s a spin on Eggplant Parmigiana, known in Italy as Melanzana alla Parmigiana. First, the eggplant slices are covered in egg and breadcrumbs, then fried to golden perfection. Once on the plate, the purple vegetable is topped with tomato sauce and Parmesan cheese. It is then popped in the oven until melted in the middle and crispy on the edges.

Many Italian Americans substituted the eggplant for chicken because Americans were more fond of the meat than the vegetarian option. It also wasn’t as easy to find eggplants in the United States during the mid-20^th century. Also, Italian immigrants came to America in search of a better, more financially prosperous future, and the switch to chicken reflected that rise in income.

The dish has taken on many spins over the last few decades. Many diners enjoy shrimp and veal Parmesean, and the dishes are usually served with pasta. It is also common to substitute the cheese for other delicious staples like fresh mozzarella and Asiago. 

If these descriptions have you craving some chicken Parmigiana, head to Brookside Inn Restaurant of Oxford, CT. This Italian restaurant offers a wide range of classic dishes, from shrimp scampi to filet mignon. In business since 1954, they’ve become known as a reliable family establishment. To learn more about their inviting eatery and enticing menu options, visit the website. You can also make a reservation at this celebrated Italian restaurant by calling (203) 888-2272 today.