Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a breaded chicken breast that is crispy and golden. It’s topped with rich marinara sauce. Then, it’s finished with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This classic Italian-American dish is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It will help you make a crispy crust, tender chicken, and a cheesy, gooey topping.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
Flavor-packed homemade marinara sauce
Perfectly melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
Easy to make and restaurant-quality
Pairs well with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables
Ingredients List
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
¼ cup milk
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Marinara Sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
For Topping:
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Timing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
How to Make Chicken Parmesan
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets.
Place them between parchment paper and pound them to about ½-inch thickness for even cooking.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Place flour in one shallow bowl.
In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
In a third bowl, mix Italian breadcrumbs, panko, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.
Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides well.
Let the breaded chicken rest for 5 minutes to help the coating stick.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Fry each chicken breast for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Marinara Sauce
In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and sugar.
Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in fresh basil before removing from heat.
Step 6: Assemble the Chicken Parmesan
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Spread ½ cup marinara sauce in a baking dish.
Place crispy chicken breasts on top.
Spoon more marinara sauce over each piece.
Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 7: Bake the Chicken Parmesan
Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a golden crust, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
Serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan
Pound the chicken evenly – This ensures even cooking and a tender texture.
Use a combination of breadcrumbs – Panko adds extra crispiness.
Let the breaded chicken rest before frying – This helps the coating stick better.
Don’t overdo the sauce – Too much can make the breading soggy.
Broil at the end – This gives the cheese a golden, bubbly finish.
Variations to Try
Baked Chicken Parmesan
Skip frying and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Spicy Chicken Parmesan
Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the seasoning.
Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan
Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Low-Carb Chicken Parmesan
Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan
Pasta: Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne with extra marinara sauce.
Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or a simple salad.
Bread: Garlic bread or a warm baguette.
Rice: Parmesan risotto or lemon herb rice.
How to Store & Reheat Chicken Parmesan
Refrigerating:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 450
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 42g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g
This dish can be made healthier by baking instead of frying and using less cheese.
FAQs
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, but they take slightly longer to cook than breasts.
Can I Make Chicken Parmesan Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare and fry the chicken, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake with sauce and cheese.
How Do I Keep the Chicken Crispy?
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Avoid adding too much sauce before baking.
Broil at the end for 1-2 minutes.
Conclusion
This chicken Parmesan recipe is easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. With crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that never fails to impress.