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Chicken Parmesan Recipe

ByCeleste Marlowe

Chicken Parmesan, or Chicken Parmigiana, is a beloved Italian-American dish that perfectly combines crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish never fails to delight. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through every detail of creating the perfect Chicken Parmesan, from ingredient selection to preparation tips, variations, and serving suggestions.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe

  • Crispy, Golden Coating – Achieved with a perfect blend of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings.
  • Rich, Savory Sauce – A homemade marinara that enhances the dish with fresh, bold flavors.
  • Gooey, Melted Cheese – A delicious combination of mozzarella and Parmesan for the ultimate indulgence.
  • Easy to Make – Though it looks fancy, this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.

Now, let’s dive into how to make the best Chicken Parmesan at home!

Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan

For the best flavor and texture, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthwise
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for added color and flavor)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
  • ½ cup vegetable or olive oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra richness)

For Assembling & Baking:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

  1. Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets. This ensures even cooking.
  2. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Set up a breading station:
    • Bowl 1: Add all-purpose flour.
    • Bowl 2: Whisk together eggs and milk.
    • Bowl 3: Mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Bread the chicken:
    • Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off excess.
    • Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring full coverage.
    • Coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere well.

2. Fry the Chicken

  1. Heat vegetable or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), fry the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

3. Make the Marinara Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and remove from heat.

4. Assemble and Bake

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  3. Place the fried chicken cutlets on top.
  4. Spoon additional marinara sauce over each piece.
  5. Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
  6. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. For a golden, crispy top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

5. Serve and Enjoy

  • Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
  • Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan

  • Thin Chicken for Even Cooking – Slicing the chicken breasts ensures they cook quickly and evenly.
  • Double Coating for Extra Crispiness – Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to help them adhere.
  • Drain on a Wire Rack – This prevents sogginess by keeping the crust crisp.
  • Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
  • Homemade Marinara is Worth It – While store-bought works in a pinch, fresh sauce elevates the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Baked Chicken Parmesan – Instead of frying, bake the breaded chicken at 425°F for 20–25 minutes before adding sauce and cheese.
  • Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
  • Low-Carb/Keto Chicken Parmesan – Substitute almond flour for regular flour and use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
  • Spicy Version – Add extra red pepper flakes to the sauce and breading mixture.

What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan

Pair this dish with classic Italian-inspired sides:

  • Pasta – Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne with extra marinara sauce.
  • Garlic Bread – Crispy, buttery slices of Italian bread.
  • Salad – A fresh Caesar or mixed greens salad for balance.
  • Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers complement the dish beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Parmesan

Refrigeration:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Freezing:

  • Freeze fully cooked and cooled chicken without sauce for up to 3 months.
  • When ready to eat, thaw overnight and reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10–15 minutes.

Reheating:

  • For best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes.
  • Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Parmesan recipe delivers crispy, cheesy, and flavorful perfection in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion, following these steps ensures a restaurant-quality dish at home. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!

Chicken Parmesan Recipe

This Chicken Parmesan recipe delivers crispy, golden-breaded chicken topped with rich homemade marinara sauce, gooey melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, this classic Italian-American dish is easy to make and guaranteed to impress for dinner or special occasions. Serve it with pasta, salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthwise
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika optional
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • ½ cup vegetable or olive oil for frying

For the Marinara Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil or 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Assembling & Baking:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken:

  • Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thin cutlets.
  • Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Set up a breading station:

  • Bowl 1: Add all-purpose flour.
  • Bowl 2: Whisk together eggs and milk.
  • Bowl 3: Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
  • Dredge each piece in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, followed by the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres.

Fry the Chicken:

  • Heat vegetable or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), fry each chicken cutlet for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  • Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Make the Marinara Sauce:

  • In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
  • Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Stir in Parmesan cheese and remove from heat.

Assemble & Bake:

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
  • Place the fried chicken cutlets on top and spoon extra marinara over each piece.
  • Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  • Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • (Optional) Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a golden, crispy cheese topping.

Serve & Enjoy:

  • Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, or a side salad.

Notes

  • For a healthier version, bake the breaded chicken at 425°F for 20–25 minutes instead of frying.
  • Gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
  • Low-carb option: Substitute almond flour for regular flour and use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked, unassembled chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to keep the breading crispy.