Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish featuring crispy, breaded chicken cutlets smothered in rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked to perfection. It’s a comfort food favorite, often served over pasta, in sandwiches, or with a side salad. This recipe delivers a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any dinner occasion.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons water
1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or panko)
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided)

For Assembly

2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil, for garnish

Directions

Preheat Oven: Set oven to 425°F (218°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 thinner cutlets. Pound them to an even thickness if needed. Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.
Dredging Station:
- In one bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
- In a second bowl, whisk eggs and water.
- In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with 3/4 cup of grated Parmesan.
Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each cutlet in flour (shaking off excess),
- Dip into the egg mixture,
- Coat in breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Let the breaded chicken rest for 5 minutes to help the coating set.
Fry the Chicken: Heat enough oil to coat the bottom of a large skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken for 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Work in batches if needed.
Assemble & Bake:
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the baking dish.
- Arrange fried chicken on top, then spoon more marinara over each cutlet.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately over pasta, with garlic bread, or alongside a salad. Enjoy!

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 450 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Protein: 45 g
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 750 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a beloved Italian-American dish that brings together crispy, breaded chicken cutlets, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions. Whether you serve it over pasta, in a sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad, Chicken Parmesan is always a crowd-pleaser. With its golden-brown crust, savory tomato sauce, and cheesy topping, this recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience.

What Makes This Chicken Parmesan Special?

Crispy & Golden Coating: The perfect blend of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings creates a crispy, flavorful crust.
Juicy & Tender Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness, ensures a moist and perfectly cooked interior.
Rich & Savory Marinara Sauce: A well-seasoned tomato sauce adds depth and enhances the overall dish.
Gooey, Melty Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese create a cheesy, golden topping that makes each bite irresistible.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve over pasta, in a sandwich, or with roasted vegetables for a customizable meal.

The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Chicken Parmesan

The key to making Chicken Parmesan extra crispy is in the breading and frying technique:

Use Panko Breadcrumbs: These larger, flakier breadcrumbs create a light and crunchy coating.
Double Coating Technique: Dredging the chicken in flour, egg wash, and a breadcrumb-cheese mixture ensures a firm, golden crust that doesn’t fall off.
Let the Coating Set: Allowing the breaded chicken to rest for 5 minutes before frying helps the coating adhere better.
Fry in Hot Oil: Using medium heat and just enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan ensures a crispy, golden-brown crust without making the chicken greasy.

Why Marinara Sauce is Essential

The marinara sauce in Chicken Parmesan adds richness, acidity, and balance to the dish. A good homemade or high-quality store-bought marinara should have:

A rich tomato base – Use canned San Marzano tomatoes for an authentic flavor.
Garlic and onions – Adds a savory depth to the sauce.
Italian herbs – Oregano, basil, and thyme provide a classic Mediterranean flavor.
A slight sweetness – A pinch of sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

The Role of Cheese in Chicken Parmesan

The cheese topping is what gives Chicken Parmesan its signature richness and gooey texture:

Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that iconic stretch and creamy texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, slightly salty flavor that complements the dish.
Provolone (Optional): Some variations include provolone for extra cheesiness.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is incredibly versatile and pairs well with different sides and presentations:

Classic Serving Ideas

Over Spaghetti: The traditional way to enjoy Chicken Parmesan is served over a bed of spaghetti with extra marinara sauce.
With Garlic Bread: The perfect side for soaking up extra sauce.
Alongside a Fresh Salad: A simple arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness of the dish.

Alternative Serving Ideas

In a Sandwich: Serve on a toasted hoagie roll for a Chicken Parmesan sandwich.
Over Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb option that still delivers all the flavor.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or zucchini for a healthier alternative.
On Its Own: A simple plate of Chicken Parmesan with extra basil and grated cheese is satisfying on its own.

Variations & Customizations

Want to put your own spin on Chicken Parmesan? Here are some fun variations:

Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or Cajun seasoning to the breading for a kick.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Baked Chicken Parmesan: Instead of frying, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Extra Cheesy Chicken Parm: Add an extra layer of cheese between the chicken and marinara sauce for even more indulgence.
Pesto Chicken Parmesan: Swap out the marinara sauce for basil pesto for a fresh and herby twist.

How to Store & Reheat Chicken Parmesan

If you have leftovers, Chicken Parmesan stores and reheats well:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked and cooled Chicken Parmesan in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for a crispy texture.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, though this method may soften the coating.

Healthier Alternatives for Chicken Parmesan

While traditional Chicken Parmesan is decadent and delicious, you can lighten it up with a few modifications:

Air-Fried Chicken Parmesan: Instead of frying, use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes for a crispy, healthier alternative.
Use Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: Adds extra fiber and nutrients.
Skip the Breading: Make grilled or baked chicken Parmesan for a low-carb, keto-friendly version.
Use Less Cheese: Reduce the amount of mozzarella for a lighter version while keeping the flavor intact.

Why Chicken Parmesan is a Crowd-Favorite

Chicken Parmesan is a timeless favorite because it combines the best flavors and textures into one dish:

Crispy & Golden: The perfectly breaded chicken cutlet provides an irresistible crunch.
Rich & Savory: The marinara sauce brings deep, comforting flavors.
Cheesy & Melty: The melted mozzarella and Parmesan create a gooey, satisfying finish.
Versatile & Customizable: Can be served in multiple ways, making it perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion

This Chicken Parmesan recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melty cheese for a meal that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether served over pasta, in a sandwich, or on its own, this dish never fails to impress.

With simple ingredients and easy preparation, Chicken Parmesan is a go-to recipe that works for weeknight dinners, family meals, and special occasions. Plus, it’s versatile, customizable, and easy to store, making it a perfect dish for meal prep.

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