Giannone Chicken is one of the most popular Italian recipes in America. It is a lighter dish that is perfect for summer.
In the early 1900s, immigrants from southern Italy brought this dish to America, becoming a favorite among Italian-American communities. It is often served for special family events, including Grandparents’ Day and Mother’s Day.
Giannone Chicken is a recipe with many variations and can be made with or without the mozzarella cheese.
The ingredients used in this dish include cooked chicken, onions, salt, egg whites, bread crumbs, butter, and mozzarella cheese.
How To Make Giannone Chicken?
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked chicken breast, skinless, boneless, and diced
- 3/4 c bread crumbs
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried basil leaves
- 2 eggs, separated
- 1 c shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Place the cooked chicken breast in a bowl and mix with the bread crumbs, butter, salt, pepper and basil leaves.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

Step 3: Dip the cooked chicken breast in beaten egg whites and then dip into the cheese. Pinch off small amounts of chicken and roll into balls. On a baking dish or cookie sheet, place balls about 1″ apart to make an even layer. Bake at 350ºF for 30 to 35 minutes.
Step 4: Serve with your favorite side dish and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Nutrition | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 686 |
Fat | 18 g |
Sodium | 738 mg (34%) |
Carbs | 41 g |
Protein | 56 g |
Cholesterol | 288 mg |
Sugar | 2 g |
Fiber | 1 g |
10 Authentic Health Benefits of Giannone Chicken
1. Great for Immunity
The white and dark meat found in this dish are rich in zinc and selenium, which is important for the human body.
These minerals have antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties that help our body fight off harmful germs.
2. Good Source of Protein
The chicken breast in Giannone Chicken is an excellent source of protein, which helps build muscle and repair tissues throughout the body.
3. Lowers Cholesterol
The protein found in this dish also helps protect against heart disease by lowering the “bad” cholesterol concentration in the body.
It also helps consume dietary fat and removes excess cholesterol deposits from the blood vessels.
4. Good Source of Vitamin B
The white meat in this dish contains niacin and riboflavin, both of which are important for the normal functioning of the nervous system. It also contains selenium, which helps protect cells from free radical damage.
5. Prevents Cancer Formation
The selenium found in the chicken is also a powerful antioxidant, which prevents tissues from forming cancerous tumors.
6. Good Source of Iron
Chicken also contains iron, an important element in red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body and helps prevent disease by removing excess toxins from the body.
7. Helps with Weight Loss
The selenium found in this dish may even aid in weight loss by boosting the metabolism and reducing hunger. It also boosts the immune system and prevents disease.
8. Excellent Antioxidant
The vitamin C found in the chicken has antioxidant properties that can help prevent damage to cells. It can also help slow the aging process and boost the immune system.
9. Improves Heart Health
The vitamin B6 found in the chicken can help lower “bad” cholesterol, which helps prevent heart disease. It is also an essential component in more than 100 enzymes that regulate blood pressure and body metabolism.
10. Ideal for Lunch
This is an excellent dish to take to work or school because it is inexpensive, easy to prepare, and healthy.
How To Add More Chicken Flavor To Giannone Chicken?
To increase the magnitude of the chicken flavor in this recipe, you can marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic cloves and onion for about 15 minutes before cooking.
You can then add extra flavor by mixing in a combination of basil, oregano, and thyme at the last stage of cooking.
Have Any Side Effects Of Giannone Chicken?
Side effects of this dish are rare but may include diarrhea, nausea, upset stomach and vomiting. Other side effects may include a headache, dizziness, or drowsiness.
How To Freeze Giannone Chicken?
You can also freeze Giannone Chicken for up to 2 months. It is recommended that you freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
You can also pack them into containers and place them directly in the freezer if you have room in your freezer.
Can Kids Eat Giannone Chicken?
No. You should not give chicken and eggs to kids before the age of 1 year old because it may pose a serious risk of foodborne illness or allergic reactions.
Conclusion
Giannone Chicken is a great dish suitable for any occasion and is sure to please the taste buds of anyone who tries it. This dish can be eaten during any meal, so no matter how you plan on serving it, the chicken will always be a hit.