Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese all come together to create the ultimate comfort food: Chicken Parmesan. This classic Italian-American dish is hearty, satisfying, and sure to please the entire family.

this Recipe

I fell in love with Chicken Parmesan during a trip to a cozy Italian bistro, and ever since, it’s been a go-to recipe in my kitchen. With just a few key ingredients and simple steps, you can recreate restaurant-quality Chicken Parmesan right at home. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this Chicken Parmesan recipe. Let’s break down why it’s a must-try for your dinner rotation.

First, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, a romantic dinner for two, or a family feast, everyone will love the crispy, cheesy goodness of this dish.

Second, it’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can have a dish that looks and tastes like it came straight from a high-end restaurant.

Third, it’s versatile. You can serve Chicken Parmesan on its own, over a bed of spaghetti, or alongside a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Finally, the combination of crispy breading, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese is simply irresistible. Once you make this dish, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for quick, even cooking.
• Breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese: These form the crispy coating. Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
• Eggs: Whisked eggs act as the glue that helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
• Marinara sauce: A good-quality jarred sauce works well, but feel free to use homemade if you have it on hand.
• Mozzarella cheese: Shredded or sliced mozzarella melts beautifully over the chicken, adding creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Flour: A light dusting of flour ensures the breading sticks and gives the chicken a golden-brown crust.
• Olive oil: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper enhance the overall flavor.

How To Make Chicken Parmesan

Making Chicken Parmesan is easier than you might think. Let me guide you through the steps to create this delicious dish.

1. Prepare the chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to about ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and tender meat. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
2. Set up the breading station: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Fry the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Assemble the dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Place the fried chicken on top, then spoon more marinara sauce over each piece. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Bake until bubbly: Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot, with spaghetti or a side of your choice.

Storage Options

Chicken Parmesan is just as delicious the next day, making it a great option for leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the crispy texture.
• Freezer: Place cooked and cooled Chicken Parmesan in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For best results, reheat the chicken in the oven rather than the microwave to keep the breading crisp.

Variations and Substitutions

Chicken Parmesan is a versatile dish, and you can make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless pork chops or eggplant slices for a different take on this classic dish.
• Try different cheeses: Provolone, fontina, or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar add a unique twist to the cheesy topping.
• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle them over the chicken for a hint of heat.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs: Make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
• Add herbs to the breading: Mix dried basil, oregano, or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.

With its crispy breading, melty cheese, and flavorful sauce, this Chicken Parmesan recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will always impress. Try it today and savor the delicious results!

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