Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe for a Crispy, Cheesy Dinner

If you’re looking for a hearty, delicious dish that combines crispy chicken, melted cheese, and rich marinara sauce, then Chicken Parmesan is a recipe you’ll want to save and make over and over again. This dish is a perfect blend of Italian flavors, with its crispy breaded chicken cutlets smothered in marinara sauce and topped with gooey, melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and satisfying.

Photo byNick Davies

Chicken Parmesan became a staple in my household after a spontaneous Italian-themed dinner night. I was craving something cheesy and filling, and that’s when Chicken Parmesan came to mind. The crispy coating of the chicken, paired with the tangy marinara and creamy cheese, made it an instant hit with my family. It’s now a go-to for quick weeknight dinners or special weekend meals. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the flavors are restaurant-worthy.

Give this Chicken Parmesan recipe a try, and don't forget to follow me for more delicious recipes like this! Trust me, this dish will become a family favorite just like it did in mine.

The Italian Origins of Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan, also known as “Chicken Parmigiana,” draws its roots from Italy’s traditional eggplant Parmesan. Immigrants from southern Italy brought this dish to America, and over time, it evolved, with the substitution of breaded chicken for eggplant. This comforting recipe has become a beloved classic in Italian-American cuisine, often served with a side of pasta or salad. The crispy chicken with the rich tomato sauce and cheesy topping truly embodies the perfect combination of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch). This ensures they cook evenly. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Bread the Chicken: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Coat each chicken breast in the flour, dip into the eggs, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Fry the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry each chicken breast for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken breasts on top, then spoon more marinara sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over each piece.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve your Chicken Parmesan hot, alongside a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan

• Get the Chicken Crispy: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. The chicken should sizzle when placed in the pan. Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature, so fry in batches if necessary.
• Layering Flavor: Adding garlic and onion powder to the chicken seasoning enhances the overall flavor of the dish. You can also use freshly minced garlic in the marinara sauce for a deeper taste.
• Cheese Matters: Using freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality mozzarella will take the flavors up a notch. You can even add a mix of mozzarella and provolone for a richer, creamier topping.

Pairings and Variations

Chicken Parmesan pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes like spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. For a lighter option, serve it with a Caesar salad or roasted vegetables. Want to switch things up? Try these variations:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the breadcrumbs and bake the chicken with just the Parmesan cheese for a keto-friendly option.
• Vegetarian Swap: For a meatless meal, use breaded and baked eggplant slices instead of chicken.

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