Few things say “comfort food” quite like a bubbling, golden-brown Chicken Parmesan fresh from the oven. With its perfectly breaded chicken cutlets, velvety tomato sauce, and irresistible melty cheese, this classic recipe is the ultimate centerpiece for any Italian-inspired dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, Chicken Parmesan delivers layers of craving-worthy flavor, plenty of gooey cheese pulls, and a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chicken Parmesan is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role in creating the perfect texture and taste. From juicy chicken to the robust marinara and gooey cheese, here’s what you’ll need and why you shouldn’t skip a single thing.
- Chicken breasts: Choose large, boneless, and skinless breasts, cut in half for even cooking and generous portions.
- All-purpose flour: This first dredge helps the egg stick, which is crucial for that crispy breadcrumb coating.
- Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the glue to hold your seasoned breadcrumbs onto the chicken.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs: Infused with herbs for extra flavor and that crunchy exterior everyone loves.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor both to the breading and sprinkled on top for that true Chicken Parmesan touch.
- Garlic powder: A dash gives the breading savory depth and that irresistible aroma.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing all the flavors together.
- Black pepper: Lends a gentle kick and rounds out the seasoning.
- Vegetable oil: Used for frying, it gives the chicken that beautiful golden crust without heavy flavor.
- Marinara sauce: Luscious and bright, it provides acidity and moisture—homemade or a good-quality jarred version both work.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: The ultimate melty, stretchy cheese for topping your cutlets.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping): A final layer of sharpness and color that melds with the mozzarella as it bakes.
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional): For a finishing touch of freshness and a pop of color on your Chicken Parmesan.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepping your baking dish with a touch of oil or a parchment lining—this ensures your cheesy masterpiece won’t stick. If those chicken breasts are a bit thick, just give them a gentle pounding to even them out. This not only promises quicker cooking but also a juicier bite in every forkful.
Step 2: The Perfect Breading Station
Grab three shallow bowls for your breading setup. Put flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and a tasty mixture of Italian breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, the garlic powder, salt, and pepper in the third. Dredge each cutlet in flour first (this helps everything stick), give it a dip in the egg, and then coat it generously in those herby, cheesy breadcrumbs—press them on for maximum crunch!
Step 3: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat your vegetable oil in a big skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, gently lay in the breaded cutlets. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes per side—what you’re looking for is a golden, crispy crust and chicken that’s cooked through. Once they’re ready, transfer the cutlets to that awaiting baking dish.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Generously spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet, making sure every inch gets a little love. Now, scatter the shredded mozzarella all over and finish with a final dusting of Parmesan cheese. This is where the magic happens—the sauce and cheese meld with the crispy chicken for that genuine Chicken Parmesan experience.
Step 5: Bake and Finish
Bake the assembled cutlets for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown in spots. If you like your cheese extra gooey and golden, pop the dish under your broiler for a minute or two at the very end. When it emerges from the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a bright, herby finish.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan
Garnishes
A simple shower of freshly chopped basil or parsley goes a long way, adding color and a touch of freshness on top of all that rich sauce and cheese. You can also grate a hint more Parmesan over each piece before serving for an extra umami kick. If you’re feeling bold, a squeeze of lemon just before serving brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
Chicken Parmesan and pasta are classic partners—spaghetti tossed in olive oil or extra marina is a fan favorite. Garlic bread is always welcome to swoop up that luscious sauce. For balance, pair with a vibrant green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some buttery green beans for a meal that feels like a feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to switch things up? Try serving Chicken Parmesan over creamy polenta for a cozy, unexpected twist. For a crowd-pleaser, slice the cooked cutlets and arrange them slider-style in soft rolls with extra sauce and cheese on top. Or go the appetizer route with mini Chicken Parmesan bites using chicken tenders on a platter with toothpicks—instant party hit!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with a few extra pieces of Chicken Parmesan (lucky you!), simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them from getting too soggy, place a little parchment or wax paper between the layers.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze Chicken Parmesan for later enjoyment! Let the cutlets cool completely before wrapping each piece tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. For best texture, freeze without garnishes and add fresh basil or parsley after reheating.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven (uncovered for crispiness) until hot and the cheese is melted, about 15 minutes. You can also reheat individual pieces in the microwave—just do it in short bursts to avoid rubbery chicken. A quick broil at the end restores some of that crispy magic!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield a juicier, slightly richer Chicken Parmesan. Just make sure to choose boneless, skinless thighs and adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.
What’s the secret to keeping the breading crispy?
The key is to fry the chicken cutlets until deeply golden and crispy before baking, and to bake them uncovered so steam doesn’t soften the breading. Also, let any excess marinade drain off before adding sauce and cheese.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Everything else stays deliciously the same, so everyone can dig in.
Is it possible to prepare Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
You sure can. Bread and cook the chicken cutlets up to a day ahead, then assemble with sauce and cheese just before baking. This makes dinner a breeze and helps maintain that coveted crispiness.
Does this recipe work with homemade marinara?
Homemade marinara is a fabulous way to make Chicken Parmesan taste even more special. If you have a favorite family recipe, use it! The extra depth and freshness will make each bite truly memorable.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow your dinner table, there’s nothing quite like homemade Chicken Parmesan. Every bite is comfort food perfected: crispy, saucy, and incredibly cheesy. I’d love for you to give this recipe a try—you just might find yourself making it on repeat!
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Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a classic Italian-American favorite with this crispy and flavorful Chicken Parmesan recipe. Tender chicken cutlets breaded and fried to perfection, then baked with marinara sauce and gooey cheese. Serve over spaghetti for a comforting and delicious meal.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to make 4 cutlets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For assembly:
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish.
- Prepare the chicken: Pound the chicken cutlets, then dredge them in flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture.
- Fry the chicken: Fry the breaded cutlets until golden brown.
- Assemble: Transfer the chicken to the baking dish, top with marinara, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Bake: Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with basil or parsley and enjoy hot.
Notes
- Serve over spaghetti or with garlic bread and salad.
- Store-bought or homemade marinara can be used.
- Bake uncovered for a crispier result.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying, Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 44 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
