Chicken Parmesan Recipe

If there’s one dish that never fails to soothe the soul and ignite a flurry of taste sensations, it’s Chicken Parmesan. With its crispy chicken cutlets smothered in marinara sauce and gooey cheese, it’s no wonder this Italian-American classic is a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy Perfection: Each bite promises a delightful crunch, thanks to the perfect breading technique.
  • Comfort in Every Bite: Warm marinara sauce and melted cheese create a comforting, cozy aroma.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Whether it’s pasta, salad, or a loaf of garlic bread, Chicken Parmesan complements a host of side dishes.
  • Easy to Make: Simple, accessible ingredients make this recipe a breeze even on busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken Parmesan is in its simplicity. While each ingredient plays a crucial role, they’re straightforward staples that you’ll likely have in your kitchen. From crispy breadcrumbs to rich marinara, let’s explore what you’ll need.

  • Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, sliced for quick cooking and tender results.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Helps the eggs adhere to the chicken, ensuring a perfect crust.
  • Eggs: Add a light, fluffy texture to the chicken coating.
  • Panko and Italian Breadcrumbs: These create a wonderfully crisp exterior that’s irresistible.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Infuses each layer with a burst of savory, umami flavor.
  • Marinara Sauce: Provides a rich, tangy base that highlights the dish beautifully.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into a gooey, inviting topping that completes the dish.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Personalizing your Chicken Parmesan is easy and invites endless culinary creativity. Feel free to adapt based on what you have or your dietary preferences to create a dish that’s uniquely yours!

  • Air Fryer Method: For a healthier twist, consider air frying the chicken to achieve that beloved crispiness with less oil.
  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for those who enjoy a touch of heat.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version of this classic.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. While it’s warming up, get your breading station ready with separate dishes for the flour, beaten eggs, and a delightful mix of Panko, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and parsley.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Carefully coat your chicken slices in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip them in the beaten eggs and finish with a generous layer of the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to ensure it sticks.

Step 3: Fry Until Golden

Fry the breaded chicken in a hot pan with some oil until each piece is beautifully golden on both sides. Remember, this step is all about getting that perfect crust, as the chicken will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Layer the marinara sauce in your baking dish, place the chicken over it, and top with more sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Bake until everything is bubbling and golden brown.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Parmesan

  • Bread Coat Mastery: Press the breadcrumbs firmly to ensure they adhere to the chicken, keeping the crust intact when frying.
  • Frying Temperature: Use medium-high heat to avoid burning the breadcrumbs while achieving a golden, crispy finish.
  • Cheese Overload: Don’t shy away from layering extra mozzarella on top for all the gooey goodness!
  • Sauce Division: Use enough marinara to cover the base of your dish and top the chicken, ensuring both moisture and flavor flood each bite.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Adding fresh basil or parsley not only gives your Chicken Parmesan a burst of color but also adds herby, aromatic notes that elevate the dish.

Side Dishes

Chicken Parmesan pairs excellently with pasta, like spaghetti, to soak up all the sauce. Consider side options like a crisp green salad, zesty Italian green beans, or even a classic piece of garlic bread to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the Chicken Parmesan in individual cast iron skillets for a rustic touch. Alternatively, create a layered chicken Parmesan tower for a visual wow factor at dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensuring the sauce doesn’t overwhelm the breadcrumbs will help preserve some crispiness.

Freezing

To freeze, place Chicken Parmesan pieces on a baking sheet to firm up before transferring to freezer bags. Freeze for up to three months, and when ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in an oven set at 375°F until warmed through, which helps maintain the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make breadcrumbs soggy.

FAQs

  1. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

    Yes, but freshly shredded mozzarella melts more smoothly and provides a better texture.

  2. What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays crispy?

    Ensure oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overloading the pan to achieve an even, golden crust.

  3. Can Chicken Parmesan be made without frying?

    Absolutely! You can bake the breaded chicken on a wire rack in the oven or use an air fryer for a healthier version.

  4. Can I prepare Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

    Yes, prep the chicken to the frying stage and store in the fridge. Assemble and bake just before serving for optimal results!

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Parmesan recipe is a simple and delightful way to bring a touch of Italian flair to your dining table. Give it a try, and allow it to become a comforting classic in your own kitchen. Bon appétit!

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Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Chicken Parmesan Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 70 reviews
  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes (includes baking + frying or air frying)
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This classic Chicken Parmesan recipe features tender breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, baked to perfection. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, it’s a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, served traditionally over pasta with optional sides.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Chicken

  • 4 chicken breasts boneless and skinless, cut in half horizontally to make 8 pieces

Breading and Seasonings

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 tablespoon parsley fresh, chopped

Frying

  • 3 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying

Sauce and Cheese Toppings

  • 24 ounce marinara sauce (1 jar)
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 tablespoon basil fresh, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the chicken Parmesan.
  2. Prepare breading stations: Place flour in a shallow dish. Beat eggs with salt and pepper in a second dish. Mix Panko, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and parsley in a third dish.
  3. Bread chicken: Dip each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, followed by pressing into the breadcrumb mixture to adhere well.
  4. Fry chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken pieces about 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Alternatively, bake or air fry the breaded chicken.
  5. Air fry option: For a healthier version, air fry at 380°F for 7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  6. Assemble: Spread 1.5 cups of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the fried chicken on top. Spoon additional marinara over each piece, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and basil.
  7. Bake: Bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and chicken reaches 165°F internally.
  8. Serve: Garnish with extra basil if desired and serve hot, traditionally over cooked pasta.

Notes

  • Serve over spaghetti or your favorite pasta. Consider pairing with Italian green beans, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days, preferably separately storing the sauce and breaded chicken to prevent sogginess when reheating.
  • To keep the breading crispy upon reheating, reheat in an oven at 350°F rather than microwave.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece
  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 1050 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg

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