Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a beloved Italian-American dish that features crispy breaded chicken cutlets smothered in rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. This dish has a perfect balance of textures and flavors—crispy, golden-brown chicken combined with tangy tomato sauce and gooey, bubbling mozzarella cheese. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet comforting, making it a favorite in households and restaurants alike.
This dish has its origins in Italian cuisine but evolved in America with the addition of breaded chicken. Traditionally, Parmesan-style dishes in Italy used eggplant as the main ingredient, but when Italian immigrants came to the U.S., they adapted the recipe using chicken. Over time, Chicken Parmesan became a staple in American-Italian restaurants and homes, commonly served with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a date night, or simply craving a comforting meal, Chicken Parmesan is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful: The chicken cutlets are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and pan-fried to golden perfection, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sauce and cheese.
- Rich and Savory: The combination of marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and deeply satisfying flavor.
- Easy to Make: While it may seem like a restaurant-quality dish, Chicken Parmesan is actually quite simple to prepare at home.
- Customizable: This dish can be made with different cheeses, gluten-free breading, or even baked instead of fried for a healthier twist.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste just as good the next day and can be reheated easily.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- For Topping:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. If needed, place the cutlets between plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Prepare three shallow bowls:
- One with flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- One with beaten eggs.
- One with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, coating both sides and shaking off any excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, patting it down to ensure an even coating.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the chicken cutlets for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, add the marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, and minced garlic. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Assemble the Chicken Parmesan
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Arrange the crispy chicken cutlets in the dish. Spoon additional marinara sauce over each cutlet, then top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
Step 7: Bake the Dish
Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For extra browning, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the top before serving.
Variation
- Baked Chicken Parmesan: Instead of frying, bake the breaded chicken cutlets at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Then, add the sauce and cheese before baking for an additional 10 minutes.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish gluten-free.
- Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add extra red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce over the chicken before serving for a spicier kick.
- Low-Carb Chicken Parmesan: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.
- Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan: Cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Then, top with sauce and cheese and air fry for another 2 minutes.
Cooking Notes
- Use thin chicken cutlets to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain crispiness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged for better flavor.
- If making homemade marinara sauce, simmer it with fresh basil and garlic for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions
- With Pasta: Serve over spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne for a classic pairing.
- With Garlic Bread: A side of crusty garlic bread makes this meal even more indulgent.
- With Salad: A fresh Caesar or arugula salad balances the richness of the dish.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted zucchini, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a lighter side.
Tips
- Make Ahead: You can bread the chicken in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked and cooled Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best results.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450-500 kcal per serving
Protein: 40 g
Sodium: 850 mg
FAQs
Can I make this without frying the chicken?
Yes, you can bake or air fry the chicken for a healthier option while still achieving a crispy texture.
What is the best cheese for Chicken Parmesan?
Mozzarella is the classic choice, but you can also use provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for extra flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, but thighs may take slightly longer to cook. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How do I keep the breading from falling off?
Make sure to pat the chicken dry before breading, and let it rest for a few minutes after breading before frying.
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan is a timeless dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. With its crispy breading, savory tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that pleases both kids and adults alike. Whether you serve it over pasta, with a side of vegetables, or in a sandwich, Chicken Parmesan is a delicious and versatile recipe worth adding to your collection. Enjoy this homemade classic and impress your family with a restaurant-quality meal right from your own kitchen.
