Chicken Parmesan Recipe

There's nothing quite like the aroma of Chicken Parmesan baking in the oven, filling your kitchen with the mouthwatering scents of melted cheese, hearty marinara sauce, and perfectly seasoned chicken. This comforting classic is a surefire crowd-pleaser, and it's easier to make than you might think.

this Recipe

I first started making Chicken Parmesan as a special Sunday dinner, hoping to wow my family. Little did I know, it would become one of our most requested meals, with everyone rushing to the table the moment it’s ready. This crispy, cheesy dish has a way of making any dinner feel extra special.

Ready to dig in? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite way to prepare chicken. This Chicken Parmesan isn't just irresistible – it's perfect for any night of the week.

First, the crispy, golden-brown chicken cutlets coated in seasoned breadcrumbs offer the most delightful crunch. Paired with gooey, melted mozzarella and a flavorful marinara sauce, each bite is a heavenly combination of textures and flavors.

Another reason this dish is so amazing? It’s surprisingly simple to prepare. You can have a restaurant-worthy dinner on the table in just under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight meals or even an impressive dinner party main course.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring the family together. The comforting, homey flavors make everyone happy, even the pickiest eaters, and you’ll often find that second helpings are a must.

Finally, this recipe is wonderfully versatile. Serve it over pasta, with a side of roasted vegetables, or even on its own with a fresh salad. However you plate it, Chicken Parmesan will have everyone at the table smiling.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Chicken Parmesan lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that combine to create an unforgettable dish.

Let's talk chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this recipe. To ensure they cook evenly, I recommend slicing them in half lengthwise and gently pounding them until they're an even thickness. This step is crucial for perfectly tender, juicy chicken.

Next, let’s discuss the breading. You’ll use a classic three-step method: flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs. All-purpose flour creates a base for the breading to stick, while the eggs provide the perfect binding agent. For the crunch, I use seasoned Italian-style breadcrumbs. They add an extra layer of flavor with garlic, herbs, and a hint of salt.

For the sauce, a good-quality marinara is key. Whether you make it from scratch or use your favorite store-bought version, ensure it’s rich and full of flavor. The marinara sauce will add depth and complement the crispy chicken beautifully.

Mozzarella cheese is the finishing touch, melting into a bubbly, golden blanket over the chicken. I prefer using fresh mozzarella for its creaminess, but shredded mozzarella works wonderfully too. Don’t forget to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra savory goodness.

You'll also need a few pantry staples: olive oil for frying, garlic powder, and a bit of dried Italian seasoning to bring everything together.

How To Make This Chicken Parmesan

Creating this mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by prepping your chicken. Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create two thin cutlets. Place them between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until they're about half an inch thick. This ensures even cooking and tender chicken.

Next, set up your breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first, place the all-purpose flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second, beat eggs with a splash of water until combined. Finally, in the third, add your Italian-style breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of garlic powder and dried Italian seasoning.

Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the egg wash, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Set the breaded chicken on a plate and let it rest while you heat your oil.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken cutlets, cooking in batches if necessary. Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking dish.

Pour your rich marinara sauce over the top of the chicken, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and a generous amount of grated Parmesan. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden around the edges.

Once out of the oven, let the Chicken Parmesan rest for a few minutes. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a burst of freshness. Pair it with your favorite pasta or a crisp salad, and watch it disappear!

Storage Options

Leftovers of this delicious Chicken Parmesan? Lucky you! Here’s how to store it properly.

For short-term storage, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The crispy coating will soften, but the flavors remain fantastic. To reheat, use a 350°F oven to warm it through without losing too much of the crunch.

If you want to keep it longer, freeze your Chicken Parmesan. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the breading soggy. Oven reheating is your best bet for maintaining some of the original crispiness.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Chicken Parmesan is how easily you can customize it to your taste.

Want a bit of heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your marinara sauce or mix some cayenne into the breadcrumb coating. A little spice goes a long way in elevating the flavors.

If you’re a veggie lover, consider adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the dish before baking. The extra vegetables pair wonderfully with the cheesy, saucy chicken.

Looking to cut back on carbs? Swap out the traditional breadcrumbs for crushed almonds or panko made from low-carb bread. Serve your Chicken Parmesan with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad instead of pasta.

For a twist, make Chicken Parmesan sandwiches! Place a crispy chicken cutlet on a toasted roll, top with extra marinara and melted cheese, and add some fresh basil for a delightful handheld meal.

No matter how you enjoy this dish, don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Each version is bound to be a hit at your dinner table.

Print