Chicken Parmigiana Vs Parmo: Which One Should You Choose?

In the culinary realm, where taste buds ignite and appetites soar, a fierce battle rages between two iconic dishes: chicken parmigiana and parmo. Both hailing from different regions, these dishes share similarities yet possess distinctive characteristics that set them apart.

Origins and History

Chicken Parmigiana: This beloved Italian-American dish originated in the mid-20th century. Its roots can be traced back to the classic Italian dish, eggplant parmigiana, where eggplant slices are coated in breadcrumbs, fried, and topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and basil. Chicken parmigiana emerged as a variation, substituting chicken breasts for eggplant.

Parmo: The parmo, a culinary creation from the North East of England, specifically Middlesbrough, has a more recent history. It was invented in the 1950s and quickly gained popularity as a regional delicacy. The parmo consists of a deep-fried chicken breast topped with béchamel sauce, cheese, and a layer of breadcrumbs.

Ingredients and Preparation

Chicken Parmigiana:

• Chicken breasts, pounded thin
• Breadcrumbs
• Italian seasoning
• Marinara or tomato sauce
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil

The chicken breasts are seasoned, coated in breadcrumbs, and pan-fried until golden brown. They are then topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese and baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Parmo:

• Chicken breasts, pounded thin
• Plain flour
• Eggs
• Breadcrumbs
• Béchamel sauce
• Cheddar cheese

The chicken breasts are coated in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs and deep-fried. A thick layer of béchamel sauce is spread over the chicken, followed by a generous amount of cheddar cheese. The parmo is then grilled until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.

Taste and Texture

Chicken Parmigiana:

• Flavor: Savory and tangy, with a balance of tomato sauce, cheese, and chicken flavors.
• Texture: Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside.

Parmo:

• Flavor: Rich and creamy, with a pronounced cheese flavor and a hint of béchamel sauce.
• Texture: Crispy on the outside, moist and succulent on the inside.

Regional Variations

Chicken Parmigiana:

• In Italy, chicken parmigiana is typically made with a thinner chicken breast and a lighter tomato sauce.
• In the United States, it is often served with a thicker chicken breast and a more robust tomato sauce.

Parmo:

• The parmo is primarily associated with the North East of England and is rarely found outside this region.
• There are variations in the thickness of the chicken breast, the type of cheese used, and the thickness of the breadcrumb coating.

Popularity and Availability

Chicken Parmigiana:

• A widely popular dish, chicken parmigiana is found on menus in Italian restaurants, pizzerias, and even casual dining establishments worldwide.
• It is often served as an entrée or main course.

Parmo:

• While not as widely known outside its region, the parmo is a beloved delicacy in the North East of England.
• It is primarily found in local pubs, takeaways, and restaurants.

Which One to Choose?

The choice between chicken parmigiana and parmo ultimately depends on personal preferences. Both dishes offer unique flavor profiles and textures.

• If you prefer a classic Italian-American dish with a tangy tomato sauce and crispy breadcrumb coating, chicken parmigiana is a great option.
• If you are looking for a rich and creamy dish with a pronounced cheese flavor, the parmo is a must-try.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the difference between chicken parmigiana and eggplant parmigiana?
A: Chicken parmigiana uses chicken breasts instead of eggplant slices.

Q: Can I make chicken parmigiana with different types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can use other cheeses such as provolone, Parmesan, or a blend of cheeses.

Q: Is a parmo healthy?
A: While the parmo is a delicious treat, it is not considered a particularly healthy dish due to its high fat and calorie content.

Q: Can I make a parmo at home?
A: Yes, it is possible to make a parmo at home, but it requires some preparation and deep-frying.

Q: Where can I find the best parmos?
A: The North East of England is known for its exceptional parmos. Look for local pubs and restaurants that specialize in this regional delicacy.