Chicken Parmigiana, Veal Parmigiana, and Eggplant Parmigiana are three classic Italian-American dishes many worldwide enjoy. While they all share similarities, each dish is unique in its own way and offers a different taste experience. Here at Shirley Sub Shoppe, we love authentic Italian food, which is why we’re dedicating this article to – you guessed it – everything Parmigiana.
Chicken Parm
Possibly one of the most beloved, Chicken Parmesan is a breaded and fried chicken cutlet topped with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The chicken is typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before being dredged in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. The chicken is then pan-fried until crispy and golden brown, smothered in tomato sauce and cheese. The dish is typically served with a side of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, to complete the meal.
Veal Parm
Veal Parmigiana is similar to Chicken Parmigiana but uses a breaded and fried veal cutlet instead of chicken. If you’ve tried the dish before, you know that veal is a more tender and delicate meat than chicken. Thus, the dish has a softer texture and a more delicate flavor. Like Chicken Parmigiana, it is topped with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese and served with a side of pasta.
Eggplant Parm
Eggplant Parmigiana, on the other hand, is a vegetarian dish that replaces meat with eggplant. Slices of eggplant are breaded and fried until crispy before being layered with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The eggplant has a unique texture that is different from chicken or veal, and it absorbs the flavors of the sauce and cheese well, making for a delicious and satisfying dish. Eggplant Parmigiana is often served with garlic bread or a salad instead of pasta. However, the choice is yours, of course!
Italian Food in Shirley, MA
All three dishes share a few common ingredients, such as tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, but the meats and vegetables used in each dish offer a distinct flavor and texture. Chicken Parmigiana is a classic comfort food many love, while Veal Parmigiana is a more elegant dish, yet not for everyone. Then, there is the beloved Eggplant Parmigiana which is a perfect vegetarian option. Whether you are a meat lover or a vegetarian, there is a Parmigiana dish that will satisfy your cravings at Shirley Sub Shoppe.