Classic Chicken Parmesan

A Delicious Italian Favorite Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that’s loaded with flavor, Chicken Parmesan is the answer. Tender, crispy chicken cutlets are topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering. This recipe is a tried-and-true classic that will impress everyone at the table.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs or 680g)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

For the Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Pound the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are thick, place them between two pieces of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag and gently pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps them cook evenly.
  2. Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

  1. Set up a Breading Station:
    • In one shallow dish, place the flour.
    • In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs.
    • In a third shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian seasoning.
  2. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, making sure to coat it evenly, then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press down slightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

  1. Fry the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts to the pan. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble the Chicken Parmesan

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Layer the Chicken: In a large baking dish, spread about 1/2 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
  3. Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon a few tablespoons of marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Serve your Chicken Parmesan with your favorite side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, a crisp salad, or garlic bread.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe:

  • Crispy and Tender: The chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside, while remaining juicy and tender on the inside.
  • Classic Comfort Food: With its rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella, this dish is the epitome of comfort food.
  • Quick and Easy: While the recipe may seem indulgent, it’s surprisingly simple and can be prepared in under an hour.

Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan:

  • Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella can add an extra layer of richness and flavor to your Chicken Parmesan.
  • Make It Ahead: You can bread and fry the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
  • Oven-Bake for a Healthier Option: If you’d prefer to skip frying, you can bake the breaded chicken breasts in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes for a lighter version.

Conclusion:

This Chicken Parmesan recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or just a family weeknight, this classic Italian dish will surely become a favorite. It’s a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful dinner that everyone will love!