Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan

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Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a breaded chicken breast that is crispy and golden. It’s topped with rich marinara sauce. Then, it’s finished with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This classic Italian-American dish is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It will help you make a crispy crust, tender chicken, and a cheesy, gooey topping.

Chicken Parmesan

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe

  • Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside

  • Flavor-packed homemade marinara sauce

  • Perfectly melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese

  • Easy to make and restaurant-quality

  • Pairs well with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables

Ingredients List

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 large eggs

  • ¼ cup milk

  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)

  • ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Marinara Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

  • 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)

  • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

For Topping:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Timing

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

  • Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Make Chicken Parmesan

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets.

  • Place them between parchment paper and pound them to about ½-inch thickness for even cooking.

  • Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

  • Place flour in one shallow bowl.

  • In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.

  • In a third bowl, mix Italian breadcrumbs, panko, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

  • Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.

  • Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.

  • Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides well.

  • Let the breaded chicken rest for 5 minutes to help the coating stick.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

  • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Fry each chicken breast for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

  • Place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Marinara Sauce

  • In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.

  • Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and sugar.

  • Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • Stir in fresh basil before removing from heat.

Step 6: Assemble the Chicken Parmesan

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Spread ½ cup marinara sauce in a baking dish.

  • Place crispy chicken breasts on top.

  • Spoon more marinara sauce over each piece.

  • Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake the Chicken Parmesan

  • Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  • For a golden crust, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

  • Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.

  • Serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.

Chicken Parmesan

Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan

  • Pound the chicken evenly – This ensures even cooking and a tender texture.

  • Use a combination of breadcrumbs – Panko adds extra crispiness.

  • Let the breaded chicken rest before frying – This helps the coating stick better.

  • Don’t overdo the sauce – Too much can make the breading soggy.

  • Broil at the end – This gives the cheese a golden, bubbly finish.

Variations to Try

Baked Chicken Parmesan

  • Skip frying and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Spicy Chicken Parmesan

  • Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the seasoning.

Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan

  • Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Low-Carb Chicken Parmesan

  • Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.

What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan

  • Pasta: Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne with extra marinara sauce.

  • Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or a simple salad.

  • Bread: Garlic bread or a warm baguette.

  • Rice: Parmesan risotto or lemon herb rice.

How to Store & Reheat Chicken Parmesan

Refrigerating:

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

  • Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

  • Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

  • Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.

  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450

  • Carbohydrates: 20g

  • Protein: 42g

  • Fat: 22g

  • Fiber: 3g

This dish can be made healthier by baking instead of frying and using less cheese.

FAQs

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?

Yes, but they take slightly longer to cook than breasts.

Can I Make Chicken Parmesan Ahead of Time?

Yes! Prepare and fry the chicken, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake with sauce and cheese.

How Do I Keep the Chicken Crispy?

  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

  • Avoid adding too much sauce before baking.

  • Broil at the end for 1-2 minutes.

Conclusion

This chicken Parmesan recipe is easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. With crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that never fails to impress.