Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese for a comforting and flavorful meal. If you’re looking for a chicken parmesan recipe easy enough to prepare on a busy weeknight but still impressive enough to serve for guests, you’ve come to the right place!
In this article, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making a perfectly crispy, juicy Chicken Parmesan that’s bursting with flavor but requires minimal effort. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned home chef, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why Chicken Parmesan Is a Classic Favorite
Chicken Parmesan’s appeal lies in its perfect balance of textures and tastes — the crunchy breading, tender chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese come together to create a dish that satisfies every craving. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it over pasta, with a side salad, or even on a sandwich roll for a hearty meal.
This easy recipe cuts down on complicated steps without sacrificing any of the flavors, making it ideal for those who want a quick yet delicious dinner.
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Before we dive into the cooking process, here’s what you’ll need to gather. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, which means you can whip this dish up anytime!
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves or parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Easy Chicken Parmesan
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing each chicken breast in half horizontally to create two thinner cutlets. This helps them cook evenly and faster.
Place each cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about 1/2 inch thick.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and paprika.
2. Bread the Chicken
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Dredge each chicken cutlet first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Cook the Chicken Cutlets
Heat a generous amount of olive oil (or vegetable oil) in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken pieces.
Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Prepare the Sauce
In a separate saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the marinara sauce, dried basil or Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes.
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 cooked chicken cutlets on top.
Spoon more marinara sauce over each piece, then generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
6. Serve
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Serve your Chicken Parmesan hot, ideally over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta, with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Making the Best Easy Chicken Parmesan
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, good-quality marinara sauce, and freshly grated cheese make a noticeable difference.
- Pound chicken evenly: Ensures even cooking and tender meat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry chicken in batches if needed to maintain crispiness.
- Let it rest briefly: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to settle the juices.
- Customize your cheese: Add a little provolone or Parmesan on top for extra richness.
Variations of Chicken Parmesan You Can Try
- Air fryer chicken parmesan: For a healthier twist, cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer for crispiness with less oil.
- Chicken Parmesan sandwich: Serve the finished chicken on a toasted hoagie roll with extra sauce and cheese.
- Low-carb version: Skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 550-650 kcal
- Protein: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 25g
Final Thoughts
This easy chicken parmesan recipe easy version is perfect for busy cooks who want a satisfying, home-cooked Italian-American favorite without spending hours in the kitchen. With crispy chicken, savory sauce, and melty cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
