The Best Chicken Parmesan Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy, and Classic
If you’re craving a comforting, Italian-American classic, this chicken parmesan recipe is the perfect choice. With golden, crispy chicken cutlets, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese, it’s no wonder this dish is a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees restaurant-quality flavor right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Chicken parmesan (also known as chicken parmigiana) is a timeless dish loved for its perfect combination of textures and flavors. The crispy breaded chicken contrasts beautifully with the smooth, savory tomato sauce, and the melted cheese adds just the right amount of indulgence.
Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Crispy coating that stays crunchy
- Juicy, tender chicken breast
- Simple, homemade marinara sauce
- Perfectly melted mozzarella and nutty parmesan
- Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd
Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the best chicken parmesan recipe at home:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half horizontally)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup olive oil (for frying)
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional)
For Topping:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Chicken Parmesan
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing your chicken breasts horizontally to create four even cutlets. Use a meat mallet to pound each piece to about ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and juicy results.
Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Dredge the Chicken
Set up a breading station:
- Flour: Place the flour in a shallow bowl.
- Egg Wash: In a second bowl, beat the eggs with 1 tablespoon of water.
- Breadcrumb Mixture: In a third bowl, mix the Italian breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, then dip in the egg wash, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly so the crumbs stick.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, fry the chicken cutlets in batches, about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Marinara Sauce
While the chicken is frying, prepare the sauce.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add chopped fresh basil for added flavor if desired.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Place the fried chicken cutlets on top.
Spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken (don’t drown it—just enough to coat).
Top each cutlet with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
Serve hot with pasta, a crisp green salad, or garlic bread.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan
- Pound chicken evenly: This helps it cook uniformly and stay tender.
- Use freshly grated cheese: For the best flavor and melting texture.
- Don’t overload the sauce: Too much sauce can make the breading soggy.
- Fry for crispiness: Baking alone won’t give you that golden crunch.
- Use quality tomatoes: Good canned tomatoes make a huge difference in sauce flavor.
What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with several sides:
- Spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in leftover marinara
- Garlic bread or crusty Italian rolls
- Caesar salad or arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus
Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Make-Ahead:
- Bread and fry the chicken cutlets in advance. Store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F before assembling with sauce and cheese.
Freezing:
- Freeze fully cooked and assembled chicken parmesan (before baking) in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F for 30–35 minutes, or until heated through.
Chicken Parmesan Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these twists:
- Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan: Skip the oil and use the air fryer for a lighter version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour and parmesan mix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought marinara?
Yes! If you’re short on time, a good-quality jarred marinara sauce will work just fine. Rao’s and Classico are great options.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, but it won’t be as crispy. Bake breaded cutlets at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What’s the difference between chicken parmesan and chicken parmigiana?
They’re the same dish! “Parmigiana” is the Italian word, while “parmesan” is the anglicized version.
Final Thoughts
This classic chicken parmesan recipe delivers everything you love: crispy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese all baked into one delicious meal. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Once you try this version, you’ll never go back to takeout.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking to impress, this dish is a surefire hit. Give it a try tonight, and savor the comforting flavors of homemade Italian-American cuisine!
