Name: Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 tbsp milk; 1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ cup olive oil (for frying); 2 cups marinara sauce; 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

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If you have ever dreamed of crafting the perfect Italian-American comfort food at home, this Chicken Parmesan Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine crispy, golden breaded chicken cutlets layered with velvety marinara sauce, then topped with a generous blanket of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Every bite bursts with rich flavor and satisfying texture, making it an unforgettable dish that feels both special and approachable. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or aiming to impress guests, this classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe brings that authentic, heartwarming taste right to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image displays ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. On the left, five flat, pale pink chicken slices are layered on white parchment paper. To the right of the chicken, there is a small green bunch of fresh basil leaves positioned above a small clear bowl of golden olive oil. Next to these, a whole white garlic bulb, a block of white mozzarella cheese, a light brown onion, and a yellow can of crushed tomatoes with a colorful label are placed. Below, two brown eggs rest beside a clear bowl of light beige breadcrumbs, a clear bowl of white flour, a small clear bowl with a light beige powder, and a wedge of hard pale yellow cheese. The scene is bright with natural light, focusing on fresh ingredients arranged in an organized way. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—using straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the crispy, cheesy, and saucy magic that is Chicken Parmesan.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing tender and juicy meat when cooked perfectly.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create the initial layer for the crispy breading to stick to.
2 large eggs: Combined with milk, these bind the breading to the chicken for that perfect crunch.
1 tbsp milk: Adds moisture to the egg wash, ensuring an even coating.
1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs: Impart a flavorful, crunchy crust seasoned with herbs and spices.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Mixed into breadcrumbs to add deeper cheesy notes and rich umami.
1 tsp garlic powder: Gives a subtle aromatic boost without overpowering the dish.
1 tsp dried oregano: Brings that classic Italian herb flavor balancing the richness.
½ cup olive oil (for frying): Used to achieve a golden, crispy exterior on the chicken cutlets.
2 cups marinara sauce: A vibrant tomato sauce that ties every bite together with acidity and sweetness.
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken for that gooey, irresistible finish.
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbal flavor at the end.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner cutlets, then pound them evenly. This step ensures each piece cooks uniformly, leading to juicy, tender results without any dry spots. Don’t forget to season both sides with salt and black pepper to bring out the natural flavors before breading.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Stations

Create a simple but effective breading process by arranging three bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with eggs whisked together with milk, and the final one with a mixture of Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and dried oregano. This setup guarantees the chicken gets that perfect crispy crust that stays put during frying and baking.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Lightly dredge each cutlet in flour, shake off the excess, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan blend. The layering is key to that golden, crispy texture.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the cutlets for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. They should develop a beautiful golden crust while locking in moisture. This step gives the chicken that classic crunch that Chicken Parmesan fans adore.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish. Spoon generous amounts of marinara sauce over each piece, then shower them with shredded mozzarella cheese. Pop the dish into a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and perfectly melted.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Recipe

The image shows a white plate with four pieces of chicken parmesan, each piece sliced lengthwise revealing juicy, tender white meat inside. On top of the chicken is a thick layer of bright red tomato sauce covered with melted, slightly browned mozzarella cheese, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a fork and knife resting on its side. There is also a small white bowl with chopped herbs in the corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finish your Chicken Parmesan with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a bright herbal note and a lovely contrast to the rich cheese and sauce. These fresh garnishes elevate the dish visually and bring a hint of fresh flavor that ties everything together.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with spaghetti tossed in extra marinara sauce or a crisp green salad for a light complement. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables are also fantastic to round out the meal, adding texture and balance to the rich, cheesy chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a delightful twist, serve the chicken cutlets stacked with layers of sauce and cheese like a lasagna. Alternatively, turn the leftovers into a Chicken Parmesan sandwich on a toasted baguette with fresh greens for a mouthwatering lunch option that feels special every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This ensures flavors stay fresh, and you can enjoy a second helping of deliciousness without any hassle.

Freezing

If you want to extend the shelf life, freeze portions wrapped tightly in foil or freezer-safe containers. Properly frozen, the Chicken Parmesan can keep well for up to three months, giving you a convenient homemade meal whenever you need it.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly. This method preserves the crispy texture much better than microwaving, which can make the breading soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and will add a bit more juiciness thanks to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they cook through.

Is it necessary to fry the chicken before baking?

Frying adds that irresistible golden crust and depth of flavor, but you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes for a lighter version. Keep in mind the texture will be less crispy without frying.

What type of cheese works best for topping?

Mozzarella is the classic choice for its meltability and mild flavor, but you can mix in provolone or fontina for a richer taste. Parmesan sprinkled on top adds a wonderful sharpness.

Can I make the marinara sauce from scratch?

Definitely! Homemade marinara is always a treat and allows you to control the seasoning perfectly. However, using a good-quality store-bought sauce works just fine and saves time without sacrificing flavor.

How do I prevent the breading from getting soggy?

Make sure to pat the chicken dry before dredging and fry in hot oil without crowding the pan. After frying, place the cutlets on a wire rack to drain excess oil before adding sauce and cheese. This keeps the crust crisp through baking.

Final Thoughts

Tackling this Chicken Parmesan Recipe at home will quickly become one of your proudest cooking achievements. The combination of crispy breading, savory sauce, and melty cheese is unbeatable and always brings smiles around the table. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this classic your own—it’s comfort food at its absolute best that you’ll love making and sharing again and again.

Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need