Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish featuring crispy breaded chicken cutlets topped with savory marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With a golden crust and gooey mozzarella, every bite is rich in flavor and texture.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breastscalleggspanko breadcrumbsgrated Parmesan cheeseflourgarlic powdersaltpepperolive oilmarinara saucemozzarella cheesefresh basil (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, dip in eggs, and coat in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing to adhere.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and pan-fry the cutlets until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Transfer the browned cutlets to the baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Garnish with fresh basil before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use provolone cheese for a different flavor profile.

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.

Make it low-carb by skipping the breadcrumbs and using almond flour.

Serve over spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or a fresh green salad.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs can be used, though they may need slightly longer cooking time.

Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread and fry the cutlets in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Mozzarella is traditional, but you can also use provolone or a mozzarella-Parmesan blend.

Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?

Yes, freeze fully cooked portions for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, bake breaded chicken on a rack at 400°F for about 20 minutes before adding sauce and cheese.

What kind of marinara sauce should I use?

Use a high-quality jarred marinara or homemade for the best flavor.

Do I need to pound the chicken?

If the cutlets are uneven, lightly pound them for even cooking.

What’s the difference between Chicken Parmesan and Chicken Parmigiana?

They are the same dish—“Parmigiana” is the Italian name.

What sides go well with Chicken Parmesan?

Pasta, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or Caesar salad are all great choices.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan is a timeless comfort food that combines crispy chicken, savory tomato sauce, and melted cheese into one irresistible dish. It’s easy to make at home and guaranteed to impress at the dinner table. Whether you serve it over pasta or with a side salad, it’s a meal the whole family will love.